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Office of Scientific and Technical Information
Automated Registration of Volumes of Interest for a Combined X-Ray Tomosynthesis and Ultrasound Breast Imaging System
Science Conference Proceedings (OSTI)
An intuitive display method was developed to enable a user to select and visualize corresponding volumes of interest in combined digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) and automated breast ultrasound images. Details of this method are described including ...
Mitchell M. Goodsitt; Heang-Ping Chan; Lubomir Hadjiiski; Gerald L. Lecarpentier; Paul L. Carson
Image categorization combining neighborhood methods and boosting
We describe an efficient and scalable system for automatic image categorization. Our approach seeks to marry scalable "model-free" neighborhood-based annotation with accurate boosting-based per-tag modeling. For accelerated neighborhood-based classification, ... Keywords: boosting, image categorization, nearest neighbors
Matthew Cooper
Atomic-Scale Chemical Imaging via Combination of Scanning Tunneling and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopies
E-Print Network (OSTI)
Atomic-Scale Chemical Imaging via Combination of Scanning Tunneling and Electron Energy Loss visualization of chemical reaction pathways to provide mechanistic understanding for catalytically important systems at atomic level Develop atomically resolved chemical imaging platform via combination of low
Medical imaging systems
A medical imaging system provides simultaneous rendering of visible light and diagnostic or functional images. The system may be portable, and may include adapters for connecting various light sources and cameras in open surgical environments or laparascopic or endoscopic environments. A user interface provides control over the functionality of the integrated imaging system. In one embodiment, the system provides a tool for surgical pathology.
Frangioni, John V
Autonomous grain combine control system
DOE Patents (OSTI)
A system for controlling a grain combine having a rotor/cylinder, a sieve, a fan, a concave, a feeder, a header, an engine, and a control system. The feeder of the grain combine is engaged and the header is lowered. A separator loss target, engine load target, and a sieve loss target are selected. Grain is harvested with the lowered header passing the grain through the engaged feeder. Separator loss, sieve loss, engine load and ground speed of the grain combine are continuously monitored during the harvesting. If the monitored separator loss exceeds the selected separator loss target, the speed of the rotor/cylinder, the concave setting, the engine load target, or a combination thereof is adjusted. If the monitored sieve loss exceeds the selected sieve loss target, the speed of the fan, the size of the sieve openings, or the engine load target is adjusted.
Hoskinson, Reed L.; Kenney, Kevin L.; Lucas, James R.; Prickel, Marvin A.
Spectrographic imaging system
An imaging system for providing spectrographically resolved images. The system incorporates a one-dimensional spatial encoding mask which enables an image to be projected onto a two-dimensional image detector after spectral dispersion of the image. The dimension of the image which is lost due to spectral dispersion on the two-dimensional detector is recovered through employing a reverse transform based on presenting a multiplicity of different spatial encoding patterns to the image. The system is especially adapted for detecting Raman scattering of monochromatic light transmitted through or reflected from physical samples. Preferably, spatial encoding is achieved through the use of Hadamard mask which selectively transmits or blocks portions of the image from the sample being evaluated.
Morris, Michael D. (Ann Arbor, MI); Treado, Patrick J. (Ann Arbor, MI)
A medical imaging system provides simultaneous rendering of visible light and fluorescent images. The system may employ dyes in a small-molecule form that remains in a subject's blood stream for several minutes, allowing real-time imaging of the subject's circulatory system superimposed upon a conventional, visible light image of the subject. The system may also employ dyes or other fluorescent substances associated with antibodies, antibody fragments, or ligands that accumulate within a region of diagnostic significance. In one embodiment, the system provides an excitation light source to excite the fluorescent substance and a visible light source for general illumination within the same optical guide that is used to capture images. In another embodiment, the system is configured for use in open surgical procedures by providing an operating area that is closed to ambient light. More broadly, the systems described herein may be used in imaging applications where a visible light image may be usefully supplemented by an image formed from fluorescent emissions from a fluorescent substance that marks areas of functional interest.
Frangioni, John V. (Wayland, MA)
Quantitative luminescence imaging system
The QLIS images and quantifies low-level chemiluminescent reactions in an electromagnetic field. It is capable of real time nonperturbing measurement and simultaneous recording of many biochemical and chemical reactions such as luminescent immunoassays or enzyme assays. The system comprises image transfer optics, a low-light level digitizing camera with image intensifying microchannel plates, an image process or, and a control computer. The image transfer optics may be a fiber image guide with a bend, or a microscope, to take the light outside of the RF field. Output of the camera is transformed into a localized rate of cumulative digitalized data or enhanced video display or hard-copy images. The system may be used as a luminescent microdosimetry device for radiofrequency or microwave radiation, as a thermal dosimeter, or in the dosimetry of ultra-sound (sonoluminescence) or ionizing radiation. It provides a near-real-time system capable of measuring the extremely low light levels from luminescent reactions in electromagnetic fields in the areas of chemiluminescence assays and thermal microdosimetry, and is capable of near-real-time imaging of the sample to allow spatial distribution analysis of the reaction. It can be used to instrument three distinctly different irradiation configurations, comprising (1) RF waveguide irradiation of a small Petri-dish-shaped sample cell, (2) RF irradiation of samples in a microscope for the microscopie imaging and measurement, and (3) RF irradiation of small to human body-sized samples in an anechoic chamber.
Erwin, David N. (San Antonio, TX); Kiel, Johnathan L. (San Antonio, TX); Batishko, Charles R. (West Richland, WA); Stahl, Kurt A. (Richland, WA)
The QLIS images and quantifies low-level chemiluminescent reactions in an electromagnetic field. It is capable of real time nonperturbing measurement and simultaneous recording of many biochemical and chemical reactions such as luminescent immunoassays or enzyme assays. The system comprises image transfer optics, a low-light level digitizing camera with image intensifying microchannel plates, an image process or, and a control computer. The image transfer optics may be a fiber image guide with a bend, or a microscope, to take the light outside of the RF field. Output of the camera is transformed into a localized rate of cumulative digitalized data or enhanced video display or hard-copy images. The system may be used as a luminescent microdosimetry device for radiofrequency or microwave radiation, as a thermal dosimeter, or in the dosimetry of ultra-sound (sonoluminescence) or ionizing radiation. It provides a near-real-time system capable of measuring the extremely low light levels from luminescent reactions in electromagnetic fields in the areas of chemiluminescence assays and thermal microdosimetry, and is capable of near-real-time imaging of the sample to allow spatial distribution analysis of the reaction. It can be used to instrument three distinctly different irradiation configurations, comprising (1) RF waveguide irradiation of a small Petri-dish-shaped sample cell, (2) RF irradiation of samples in a microscope for the microscopic imaging and measurement, and (3) RF irradiation of small to human body-sized samples in an anechoic chamber. 22 figs.
Erwin, D.N.; Kiel, J.L.; Batishko, C.R.; Stahl, K.A.
Machine translation system combination by confusion forest
The state-of-the-art system combination method for machine translation (MT) is based on confusion networks constructed by aligning hypotheses with regard to word similarities. We introduce a novel system combination framework in which hypotheses are ...
Taro Watanabe; Eiichiro Sumita
Quantitative Luminescence Imaging System
SciTech Connect
The goal of the MEASUREMENT OF CHEMILUMINESCENCE project is to develop and deliver a suite of imaging radiometric instruments for measuring spatial distributions of chemiluminescence. Envisioned deliverables include instruments working at the microscopic, macroscopic, and life-sized scales. Both laboratory and field portable instruments are envisioned. The project also includes development of phantoms as enclosures for the diazoluminomelanin (DALM) chemiluminescent chemistry. A suite of either phantoms in a variety of typical poses, or phantoms that could be adjusted to a variety of poses, is envisioned. These are to include small mammals (rats), mid-sized mammals (monkeys), and human body parts. A complete human phantom that can be posed is a long-term goal of the development. Taken together, the chemistry and instrumentation provide a means for imaging rf dosimetry based on chemiluminescence induced by the heat resulting from rf energy absorption. The first delivered instrument, the Quantitative Luminescence Imaging System (QLIS), resulted in a patent, and an R&D Magazine 1991 R&D 100 award, recognizing it as one of the 100 most significant technological developments of 1991. The current status of the project is that three systems have been delivered, several related studies have been conducted, two preliminary human hand phantoms have been delivered, system upgrades have been implemented, and calibrations have been maintained. Current development includes sensitivity improvements to the microscope-based system; extension of the large-scale (potentially life-sized targets) system to field portable applications; extension of the 2-D large-scale system to 3-D measurement; imminent delivery of a more refined human hand phantom and a rat phantom; rf, thermal and imaging subsystem integration; and continued calibration and upgrade support.
Batishko, C.R.; Stahl, K.A.; Fecht, B.A.
Desiccant-Based Combined Systems
and designers to consider HAVC system designs that can meet ASHRAE 62 and control space humidity. Previously
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Ultrasonic Fatigue Testing System Combined with Nondestructive ...
Presentation Title, Ultrasonic Fatigue Testing System Combined with ... High and Very High Cycle Fatigue in Al and Cu Thin Films on Si Substrate.
Combined cycle total energy system
A system is described for the co-generation of steam and electricity comprising: a source of gaseous fuel, a source of air, means for mixing the fuel and air to form a relatively lean fuel/air mixture, a gas turbine, a first fuel/air mixture compressor directly driven by the turbine, a second fuel/air mixture compressor driven by the turbine for further compressing the fuel/air mixture, a catalytic burner between the second compressor and gas turbine, a motor/generator, a steam turbine, means coupling the gas turbine, motor/generator, first and second compressors and steam turbine to one another, a source of water, a steam boiler connected to the source of water and to the exhaust system of the gas turbine, a steam economizer connected to the boiler, a steam superheater in heat exchange relationship with the exhaust system of the gas turbine disposed between the economizer and the steam turbine, and controllable means for bypassing superheated steam from the superheater around the steam turbine to maximize steam or electric power output of the system selectively.
Joy, J.R.
Medical Image Integrity Control Combining Digital Signature and Lossless Watermarking
Medical Image Integrity Control Combining Digital Signature and Lossless Watermarking W. Pan1,3 , G protection of medical content becomes a major issue of computer security. Since medical contents are more proposed as a com- plementary mechanism for medical data protection. In this paper, we focus
Paris-Sud XI, Université de
Acoustic imaging system
An acoustic imaging system for displaying an object viewed by a moving array of transducers as the array is pivoted about a fixed point within a given plane. A plurality of transducers are fixedly positioned and equally spaced within a laterally extending array and operatively directed to transmit and receive acoustic signals along substantially parallel transmission paths. The transducers are sequentially activated along the array to transmit and receive acoustic signals according to a preestablished sequence. Means are provided for generating output voltages for each reception of an acoustic signal, corresponding to the coordinate position of the object viewed as the array is pivoted. Receptions from each of the transducers are presented on the same display at coordinates corresponding to the actual position of the object viewed to form a plane view of the object scanned.
Smith, Richard W. (Richland, WA)
High speed imaging television system
A television system for observing an event which provides a composite video output comprising the serially interlaced images the system is greater than the time resolution of any of the individual cameras.
Wilkinson, William O. (Silver Spring, MD); Rabenhorst, David W. (Silver Spring, MD)
Backscatter absorption gas imaging system
A video imaging system for detecting hazardous gas leaks. Visual displays of invisible gas clouds are produced by radiation augmentation of the field of view of an imaging device by radiation corresponding to an absorption line of the gas to be detected. The field of view of an imager is irradiated by a laser. The imager receives both backscattered laser light and background radiation. When a detectable gas is present, the backscattered laser light is highly attenuated, producing a region of contrast or shadow on the image. A flying spot imaging system is utilized to synchronously irradiate and scan the area to lower laser power requirements. The imager signal is processed to produce a video display.
McRae, Jr., Thomas G. (Livermore, CA)
Easley Combined Utility System | Open Energy Information
Open Energy Info (EERE)
Easley Combined Utility System Easley Combined Utility System Jump to: navigation, search Name Easley Combined Utility System Place South Carolina Utility Id 6709 Utility Location Yes Ownership M NERC Location SERC NERC SERC Yes Operates Generating Plant Yes Activity Generation Yes Activity Distribution Yes References EIA Form EIA-861 Final Data File for 2010 - File1_a[1] LinkedIn Connections CrunchBase Profile No CrunchBase profile. Create one now! This article is a stub. You can help OpenEI by expanding it. Utility Rate Schedules Grid-background.png Church electric service rate (Inside city limits) Commercial Church electric service rate (Outside city limits) Commercial Residential service rate (Inside city limits) Residential Residential service rate (Outside city limits) Residential
Image capture system colors transforms
The goal of this paper is to simulate the colors transforms of the reflected light from an illuminated object that passes trough an image capture system. We are interested to see the colors differences at the output of each component from which the light ... Keywords: CIE standards, human eye response, lenses and filters transmittance, spectral images
Toadere Florin
SOFC combined cycle systems for distributed generation
The final phase of the tubular SOFC development program will focus on the development and demonstration of pressurized solid oxide fuel cell (PSOFC)/gas turbine (GT) combined cycle power systems for distributed power applications. The commercial PSOFC/GT product line will cover the power range 200 kWe to 50 MWe, and the electrical efficiency for these systems will range from 60 to 75% (net AC/LHV CH4), the highest of any known fossil fueled power generation technology. The first demonstration of a pressurized solid oxide fuel cell/gas turbine combined cycle will be a proof-of-concept 250 kWe PSOFC/MTG power system consisting of a single 200 kWe PSOFC module and a 50 kWe microturbine generator (MTG). The second demonstration of this combined cycle will be 1.3 MWe fully packaged, commercial prototype PSOFC/GT power system consisting of two 500 kWe PSOFC modules and a 300 kWe gas turbine.
Brown, R.A.
Combining Image and Non-Image Data for Automatic Detection of Retina Disease in a Telemedicine Network
A telemedicine network with retina cameras and automated quality control, physiological feature location, and lesion/anomaly detection is a low-cost way of achieving broad-based screening for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and other eye diseases. In the process of a routine eye-screening examination, other non-image data is often available which may be useful in automated diagnosis of disease. In this work, we report on the results of combining this non-image data with image data, using the protocol and processing steps of a prototype system for automated disease diagnosis of retina examinations from a telemedicine network. The system includes quality assessments, automated physiology detection, and automated lesion detection to create an archive of known cases. Non-image data such as diabetes onset date and hemoglobin A1c (HgA1c) for each patient examination are included as well, and the system is used to create a content-based image retrieval engine capable of automated diagnosis of disease into 'normal' and 'abnormal' categories. The system achieves a sensitivity and specificity of 91.2% and 71.6% using hold-one-out validation testing.
Aykac, Deniz [ORNL; Chaum, Edward [University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK); Fox, Karen [Delta Health Alliance; Garg, Seema [University of North Carolina; Giancardo, Luca [ORNL; Karnowski, Thomas Paul [ORNL; Li, Yaquin [University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK); Nichols, Trent L [ORNL; Tobin Jr, Kenneth William [ORNL
Combined Systems with Tankless Water Heaters
Energy.gov (U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)) Indexed Site
Combined Systems with Tankless Water Heaters Combined Systems with Tankless Water Heaters Armin Rudd Residential Energy Efficiency Stakeholder Meeting 2/29 - 3/2/2012 Austin, Texas 2 Residential Energy Efficiency Stakeholder Meeting 2/29 - 3/2/2012 Austin, Texas More builder's wanting to use gas-fired tankless water heaters, and with solar pre-heat Endless hot water Helps HERS Index Space saving 2 3 Residential Energy Efficiency Stakeholder Meeting 2/29 - 3/2/2012 Austin, Texas Problem with elevated TWH inlet temperature 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 Maximum Inlet Temperature (F) DHW flow rate (gpm) Maximum TWH inlet temperature to stay below 125 F delivered temperature, with 15 kBtu/h minimum firing rate Typical shower temperature 4 Residential Energy Efficiency Stakeholder Meeting
Combined hydraulic and regenerative braking system
A combined hydraulic and regenerative braking system and method for an electric vehicle is disclosed. The braking system is responsive to the applied hydraulic pressure in a brake line to control the braking of the vehicle to be completely hydraulic up to a first level of brake line pressure, to be partially hydraulic at a constant braking force and partially regenerative at a linearly increasing braking force from the first level of applied brake line pressure to a higher second level of brake line pressure, to be partially hydraulic at a linearly increasing braking force and partially regenerative at a linearly decreasing braking force from the second level of applied line pressure to a third and higher level of applied line pressure, and to be completely hydraulic at a linearly increasing braking force from the third level to all higher applied levels of line pressure.
Venkataperumal, R.R.; Mericle, G.E.
A combined hydraulic and regenerative braking system and method for an electric vehicle, with the braking system being responsive to the applied hydraulic pressure in a brake line to control the braking of the vehicle to be completely hydraulic up to a first level of brake line pressure, to be partially hydraulic at a constant braking force and partially regenerative at a linearly increasing braking force from the first level of applied brake line pressure to a higher second level of brake line pressure, to be partially hydraulic at a linearly increasing braking force and partially regenerative at a linearly decreasing braking force from the second level of applied line pressure to a third and higher level of applied line pressure, and to be completely hydraulic at a linearly increasing braking force from the third level to all higher applied levels of line pressure.
Venkataperumal, Rama R. (Troy, MI); Mericle, Gerald E. (Mount Clemens, MI)
New mammography screen/film combinations: Imaging characteristics and radiation dose
Five types of film (Kodak OM, Kodak OM-SO177, Konica CM, Dupont Microvision, and Fuji MiMa) exposed in combination with seven different intensifying screens (Min R, Min R Medium, Siemens Orthox MA, Kyokka HR Mammo Fine, Agfa Gevaert Detail S (old and new), and Konica Monarch) were processed for either 90 sec (at 33.3{degrees}C) or 3 min (at 35.0 degrees C). The films imaged a Computerized Imaging Reference System phantom with additional detail test objects placed on its surface to produce four groups of objects with which to evaluate resolution and contrast. For objects that tested resolution, the Kyokka HR Mammo Fine (Fuji) screen was statistically significantly superior; for objects that tested contrast, the Konica Monarch screen was statistically significantly superior. Extended processing did not affect Dupont and Kodak OM film as much as it affected the other films. It did affect contrast for the other films tested. The mean glandular doses from gridless exposures ranged from 32 to 80 mrad (0.32-0.80 mGy) over all film/screen/processing combinations for a 4.5-cm-thick test object. Several new film/screen combinations can provide images superior to the Kodak Min R/OM combination at a reduced radiation dose. The Kyokka HR Mammo Fine (Fuji) screen was found statistically superior in radiographic resolution of mammographic test objects and the Konica Monarch screen was found to be superior in defining contrast.
Kimme-Smith, C.; Bassett, L.W.; Gold, R.H.; Zheutlin, J.; Gornbein, J.A. (Iris Cantor Center for Breast Imaging, CA (USA))
Electronic imaging system and technique
A method and system for viewing objects obscurred by intense plasmas or flames (such as a welding arc) includes a pulsed light source to illuminate the object, the peak brightness of the light reflected from the object being greater than the brightness of the intense plasma or flame; an electronic image sensor for detecting a pulsed image of the illuminated object, the sensor being operated as a high-speed shutter; and electronic means for synchronizing the shutter operation with the pulsed light source.
Bolstad, J.O.
Bolstad, Jon O. (Idaho Falls, ID)
Convective Tendency Images Derived from a Combination of Lightning and Satellite Data
A technique is presented for generating convective tendency products by combining satellite images with observations of cloud-to-ground lightning activity. Rapid scan (5-min) infrared satellite images are used to define the areal distribution of ...
Steven J. Goodman; Dennis E. Buechler; Paul J. Meyer
Multi-channel medical imaging system
A medical imaging system provides simultaneous rendering of visible light and fluorescent images. The system may employ dyes in a small-molecule form that remain in the subject's blood stream for several minutes, allowing real-time imaging of the subject's circulatory system superimposed upon a conventional, visible light image of the subject. The system may provide an excitation light source to excite the fluorescent substance and a visible light source for general illumination within the same optical guide used to capture images. The system may be configured for use in open surgical procedures by providing an operating area that is closed to ambient light. The systems described herein provide two or more diagnostic imaging channels for capture of multiple, concurrent diagnostic images and may be used where a visible light image may be usefully supplemented by two or more images that are independently marked for functional interest.
Novel Combination of Enzyme Systems Could Lower Biofuel Costs...
NLE Websites -- All DOE Office Websites (Extended Search)
NRELFS-2700-58559 | July 2013 Novel Combination of Enzyme Systems Could Lower Biofuel Costs Highlights in Science Two biomass-degrading enzyme systems that work in very...
Low cost Image Transmission System
Throughout the Department of Energy (DOE) complex, sites protect themselves with intrusion detection systems. Some of these systems have sensors in remote areas. These sensors frequently alarm -- not because they have detected a terrorist skulking around the area, but because they have detected a horse, or a dog, or a bush moving in the breeze. Even though the local security force is 99% sure there is no real threat, they must assess each of these nuisance or false alarms. Generally, the procedure consists of dispatching an inspector to drive to the area and make an assessment. This is expensive in terms of manpower and the assessment is not timely. Often, by the time the inspector arrives, the cause of the alarm has vanished. A television camera placed to view the area protected by the sensor could be used to help in this assessment, but this requires the installation of high-quality cable, optical fiber, or a microwave link. Further, to be of use at the present time, the site must have had the foresight to have installed these facilities in the past and have them ready for use now. What is needed is a device to place between the television camera and a modem connecting to a low-bandwidth channel such as radio or a telephone line. This paper discusses the development of such a device: an Image Transmission System, or ITS.
Skogmo, D.
New Quantum Key System Combines Speed, Distance
... a prototype high-speed quantum key distribution (QKD) system ... a theoretically unbreakable �one-time pad� encryption, transmission and decryption ...
Combined Electric Machine and Current Source Inverter Drive System ...
Wind power generators ; Industrial power generators; More Information John S. Hsu. Combined Electric Machine and Current Source Invertor Drive System, U.S ...
Westinghouse fuel cell combined cycle systems
DOE Green Energy (OSTI)
Efficiency (voltage) of the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) should increase with operating pressure, and a pressurized SOFC could function as the heat addition process in a Brayton cycle gas turbine (GT) engine. An overall cycle efficiency of 70% should be possible. In cogeneration, half of the waste heat from a PSOFC/GT should be able to be captured in process steam and hot water, leading to a fuel effectiveness of about 85%. In order to make the PSOFC/GT a commercial reality, satisfactory operation of the SOFC at elevated pressure must be verified, a pressurized SOFC generator module must be designed, built, and tested, and the combined cycle and parameters must be optimized. A prototype must also be demonstrated. This paper describes progress toward making the PSOFC/GT a reality.
Veyo, S.
First Demonstration of Combined kV/MV Image-Guided Real-Time Dynamic Multileaf-Collimator Target Tracking
Purpose: For intrafraction motion management, a real-time tracking system was developed by combining fiducial marker-based tracking via simultaneous kilovoltage (kV) and megavoltage (MV) imaging and a dynamic multileaf collimator (DMLC) beam-tracking system. Methods and Materials: The integrated tracking system employed a Varian Trilogy system equipped with kV/MV imaging systems and a Millennium 120-leaf MLC. A gold marker in elliptical motion (2-cm superior-inferior, 1-cm left-right, 10 cycles/min) was simultaneously imaged by the kV and MV imagers at 6.7 Hz and segmented in real time. With these two-dimensional projections, the tracking software triangulated the three-dimensional marker position and repositioned the MLC leaves to follow the motion. Phantom studies were performed to evaluate time delay from image acquisition to MLC adjustment, tracking error, and dosimetric impact of target motion with and without tracking. Results: The time delay of the integrated tracking system was {approx}450 ms. The tracking error using a prediction algorithm was 0.9 {+-} 0.5 mm for the elliptical motion. The dose distribution with tracking showed better target coverage and less dose to surrounding region over no tracking. The failure rate of the gamma test (3%/3-mm criteria) was 22.5% without tracking but was reduced to 0.2% with tracking. Conclusion: For the first time, a complete tracking system combining kV/MV image-guided target tracking and DMLC beam tracking was demonstrated. The average geometric error was less than 1 mm, and the dosimetric error was negligible. This system is a promising method for intrafraction motion management.
Cho, Byungchul [Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (United States)], E-mail: email@example.com; Poulsen, Per R. [Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (United States); Department of Medical Physics, Department of Oncology, Aarhus University, Aarhus (Denmark); Sloutsky, Alex [Varian Medical Systems, Palo Alto, CA (United States); Sawant, Amit; Keall, Paul J. [Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (United States)
Solar air heating system for combined DHW and space heating
Solar air heating system for combined DHW and space heating solar air collector PV-panel fannon-return valve DHW tank mantle cold waterhot water roof Solar Energy Centre Denmark Danish Technological Institute SEC-R-29 #12;Solar air heating system for combined DHW and space heating Søren �?stergaard Jensen
Automated imaging system for single molecules
There is provided a high throughput automated single molecule image collection and processing system that requires minimal initial user input. The unique features embodied in the present disclosure allow automated collection and initial processing of optical images of single molecules and their assemblies. Correct focus may be automatically maintained while images are collected. Uneven illumination in fluorescence microscopy is accounted for, and an overall robust imaging operation is provided yielding individual images prepared for further processing in external systems. Embodiments described herein are useful in studies of any macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, peptides and proteins. The automated image collection and processing system and method of same may be implemented and deployed over a computer network, and may be ergonomically optimized to facilitate user interaction.
Schwartz, David Charles; Runnheim, Rodney; Forrest, Daniel
The Neutron Imaging System Fielded at the National Ignition Facility
A neutron imaging diagnostic has recently been commissioned at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). This new system is an important diagnostic tool for inertial fusion studies at the NIF for measuring the size and shape of the burning DT plasma during the ignition stage of Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) implosions. The imaging technique utilizes a pinhole neutron aperture, placed between the neutron source and a neutron detector. The detection system measures the two dimensional distribution of neutrons passing through the pinhole. This diagnostic has been designed to collect two images at two times. The long flight path for this diagnostic, 28 m, results in a chromatic separation of the neutrons, allowing the independently timed images to measure the source distribution for two neutron energies. Typically the first image measures the distribution of the 14 MeV neutrons and the second image of the 6-12 MeV neutrons. The combination of these two images has provided data on the size and shape of the burning plasma within the compressed capsule, as well as a measure of the quantity and spatial distribution of the cold fuel surrounding this core.
Merrill, F E; Buckles, R; Clark, D D; Danly, C R; Drury, O B; Dzenitis, J M; Fatherley, V E; Fittinghoff, D N; Gallegos, R; Grim, G P; Guler, N; Loomis, E N; Lutz, S; Malone, R M; Martinson, D D; Mares, D; Morley, D J; Morgan, G L; Oertel, J A; Tregillis, I L; Volegov, P L; Weiss, P B; Wilde, C H
Image Capture and Acquisition System
Table 2 Typical characteristics of image digitization devices...= 10�??20% 50�??200 �?� 0.5 0.05 Pasecon/Chalnicon (CdSe) Fair 1600 33 ms, lag = 5�??10% 30�??60 �?� 1 0.09 Saticon (Se+Te+As) Fair 1200 33 ms, lag = 3% 50�??160 �?� 6 0.6 Plumbicon (PbO) Fair 1200 33 ms, lag = 4% 80�??160 �?� 2.5 0.23 SIT (Silicon) Fair 750 33 ms, lag = 7% 60 �?� 0.01 0.0009 (a) Aperture. (b) 776 �? 512...
3-D capacitance density imaging system
A three-dimensional capacitance density imaging of a gasified bed or the like in a containment vessel is achieved using a plurality of electrodes provided circumferentially about the bed in levels and along the bed in channels. The electrodes are individually and selectively excited electrically at each level to produce a plurality of current flux field patterns generated in the bed at each level. The current flux field patterns are suitably sensed and a density pattern of the bed at each level determined. By combining the determined density patterns at each level, a three-dimensional density image of the bed is achieved. 7 figs.
Fasching, G.E.
Description 1 CHP System Name 2 CEC Plant ID 3 EIA Plant ID 4 Qualifying Facility ID (if applicable) 5 Thermal, and emissions related to combined heat and power (CHP) system power plant operations. This information is used the power plant is first reported on Form CEC-2843. The respondent should use the Commission assigned code
Icon combination for thai picture-based communication system
Graphic symbol mentioned in this article is a symbol which will be used in the Thai Picture-based Communication System. The interpretation of graphic symbol should be carefully considered as the picture-based communication system uses a set of icons ... Keywords: Thai graphic symbols, augmentative and alternative communication, icon combination, iconicity, semantic compaction
Puttachart Potibal, Sarinya Chompoobutr, Wantanee Phantachat, Monthika Boriboon
Image reconstruction for high-sensitivity imaging by using combined long/short exposure type single-chip image sensor
We propose a image reconstruction method and a sensor for high-sensitivity imaging using long-term exposed green pixels over several frames. As a result of extending the exposure time of green pixels, motion blur increases. We use motion information ...
Sanzo Ugawa; Takeo Azuma; Taro Imagawa; Yusuke Okada
Imaging a laser pulse propagation trough an image acquisition system
The goal of this paper is to generate a laser pulse and to capture it by an image acquisition system. We use a confocal resonator to generate a laser pulse; then the generate light is focused in to an optical fiber using an achromatic doublet; the light ... Keywords: Hermite Gaussian polynomial, Laplacian filter, MTF, PSF, achromatic doublet, amplitude filter, bilateral filter, fixed pattern noise, photon shot noise
Toadere Florin; Nikos E. Mastorakis
Image change detection systems, methods, and articles of manufacture
Aspects of the invention relate to image change detection systems, methods, and articles of manufacture. According to one aspect, a method of identifying differences between a plurality of images is described. The method includes loading a source image and a target image into memory of a computer, constructing source and target edge images from the source and target images to enable processing of multiband images, displaying the source and target images on a display device of the computer, aligning the source and target edge images, switching displaying of the source image and the target image on the display device, to enable identification of differences between the source image and the target image.
Jones, James L. (Idaho Falls, ID); Lassahn, Gordon D. (Idaho Falls, ID); Lancaster, Gregory D. (Idaho Falls, ID)
Obstacle penetrating dynamic radar imaging system
An obstacle penetrating dynamic radar imaging system for the detection, tracking, and imaging of an individual, animal, or object comprising a multiplicity of low power ultra wideband radar units that produce a set of return radar signals from the individual, animal, or object, and a processing system for said set of return radar signals for detection, tracking, and imaging of the individual, animal, or object. The system provides a radar video system for detecting and tracking an individual, animal, or object by producing a set of return radar signals from the individual, animal, or object with a multiplicity of low power ultra wideband radar units, and processing said set of return radar signals for detecting and tracking of the individual, animal, or object.
Romero, Carlos E. (Livermore, CA); Zumstein, James E. (Livermore, CA); Chang, John T. (Danville, CA); Leach, Jr.. Richard R. (Castro Valley, CA)
Active imaging system with Faraday filter
An active imaging system has a low to medium powered laser transmitter and receiver wherein the receiver includes a Faraday filter with an ultranarrow optical bandpass and a bare (nonintensified) CCD camera. The laser is locked in the vicinity of the passband of the Faraday filter. The system has high sensitivity to the laser illumination while eliminating solar background.
Snyder, J.J.
MHK Technologies/OMI Combined Energy System | Open Energy Information
OMI Combined Energy System OMI Combined Energy System < MHK Technologies Jump to: navigation, search << Return to the MHK database homepage OMI Combined Energy System.png Technology Profile Primary Organization Ocean Motion International LLC OMI Technology Resource Click here Wave Technology Type Click here Point Absorber - Submerged Technology Readiness Level Click here TRL 1 3 Discovery Concept Def Early Stage Dev Design Engineering Technology Description The Combined Energy System CES consists of four sub system components a seawater wave pump a hydro turbine electric generator a reverse osmosis filtration unit and an electrolysis hydrogen generation unit The CES is designed to operate on a large offshore platform which is essentially a modified version of a standard modular offshore drilling unit The system produces potable water electricity and hydrogen which is delivered to shore through service piping and cabling The OMI WavePump is technically described as a mass displacement wave energy conversion device The patented seawater pump and heart of the CES is an innovative design which uses a small number of simple moving components for minimal maintenance and wear The hydro turbine electric generator is driven by the output of multiple WavePumps which provide a constant flow of high volume high pressure seawater
Combined cycle phosphoric acid fuel cell electric power system
By arranging two or more electric power generation cycles in series, combined cycle systems are able to produce electric power more efficiently than conventional single cycle plants. The high fuel to electricity conversion efficiency results in lower plant operating costs, better environmental performance, and in some cases even lower capital costs. Despite these advantages, combined cycle systems for the 1 - 10 megawatt (MW) industrial market are rare. This paper presents a low noise, low (oxides of nitrogen) NOx, combined cycle alternative for the small industrial user. By combining a commercially available phosphoric acid fuel cell (PAFC) with a low-temperature Rankine cycle (similar to those used in geothermal applications), electric conversion efficiencies between 45 and 47 percent are predicted. While the simple cycle PAFC is competitive on a cost of energy basis with gas turbines and diesel generators in the 1 to 2 MW market, the combined cycle PAFC is competitive, on a cost of energy basis, with simple cycle diesel generators in the 4 to 25 MW market. In addition, the efficiency and low-temperature operation of the combined cycle PAFC results in a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions with NO{sub x} concentration on the order of 1 parts per million (per weight) (ppmw).
Mollot, D.J.; Micheli, P.L.
Commissioning Residential Ventilation Systems: A Combined Assessment of
Commissioning Residential Ventilation Systems: A Combined Assessment of Commissioning Residential Ventilation Systems: A Combined Assessment of Energy and Air Quality Potential Values Title Commissioning Residential Ventilation Systems: A Combined Assessment of Energy and Air Quality Potential Values Publication Type Report LBNL Report Number LBNL-5969E Year of Publication 2012 Authors Turner, William J. N., Jennifer M. Logue, and Craig P. Wray Date Published 07/2012 Keywords commissioning, energy, health, indoor air quality, residential, valuation, ventilation Abstract Due to changes in building codes, whole-house mechanical ventilation systems are being installed in new California homes. Few measurements are available, but the limited data suggest that these systems don't always perform as code and forecasts predict. Such deficiencies occur because systems are usually field assembled without design specifications, and there is no consistent process to identify and correct problems. The value of such activities in terms of reducing energy use and improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is poorly understood. Commissioning such systems when they are installed or during subsequent building retrofits is a step towards eliminating deficiencies and optimizing the tradeoff between energy use and IAQ.
Retrofitting Combined Space and Water Heating Systems: Laboratory Tests
Better insulated and tighter homes can often use a single heating plant for both space and domestic water heating. These systems, called dual integrated appliances (DIA) or combination systems, can operate at high efficiency and eliminate combustion safety issues associated by using a condensing, sealed combustion heating plant. Funds were received to install 400 DIAs in Minnesota low-income homes. The NorthernSTAR DIA laboratory was created to identify proper system components, designs, operating parameters, and installation procedures to assure high efficiency of field installed systems. Tests verified that heating loads up to 57,000 Btu/hr can be achieved with acceptable return water temperatures and supply air temperatures.
Schoenbauer, B.; Bohac, D.; Huelman, P.; Olson, R.; Hewitt, M.
Ultrarelativistic laser systems based on coherent beam combining
Conceptual design for femtosecond laser system of exawatt class, based on multi-channel amplifier and coherent field combining of petawatt amplifier channels with phase-frequency controlled radiation by optical clock are discussed. The scheme of start petawatt level few-cycle laser system with stable phase-frequency parameters determinated by the accuracy of the optical standard based on parametric amplification in big-size LBO crystals pumped by picosecond pulses is analyzed.
Bagayev, S. N.; Trunov, V. I.; Pestryakov, E. V.; Frolov, S. A.; Leschenko, V. E.; Kirpichnikov, A. V.; Kokh, A. E.; Petrov, V. V.; Vasiliev, V. A. [Institute of Laser Physics SB RAS, Ac. Lavrentyev's prosp., 13/3, Novosibirsk (Russian Federation); Institute of Geology and Mineralogy SB RAS, Ac. Koptug's prosp., 3, Novosibirsk (Russian Federation); Institute of Laser Physics SB RAS, Ac. Lavrentyev's prosp., 13/3, Novosibirsk (Russian Federation)
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems | Department of Energy
Technology Development » Smart Grid » Distributed Technology Development » Smart Grid » Distributed Energy » Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems The CHP systems program aimed to facilitate acceptance of distributed energy in end-use sectors by forming partnerships with industry consortia in the commercial building, merchant stores, light industrial, supermarkets, restaurants, hospitality, health care and high-tech industries. In high-tech industries such as telecommunications, commercial data processing and internet services, the use of electronic data and signal processing have become a cornerstone in the U.S. economy. These industries represent high potential for CHP and distributed energy due to their ultra-high reliability and power quality requirements and related large
This invention is comprised of an active imaging system which has a low to medium powered laser transmitter and a receiver wherein the receiver includes a Faraday filter with an ultranarrow optical bandpass and a bare (nonintensified) CCD camera. The laser is locked in the vicinity of the passband of the Faraday filter. The system has high sensitivity to the laser illumination wile eliminating solar background.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Combined Cycle District Heating System
This paper presents a thermodynamic analysis of the University of Massachusetts' Combined Heat and Power (CHP) District Heating System. Energy and exergy analyses are performed based on the first and second laws of thermodynamics for power generation systems that include a 10 MW Solar combustion gas turbine, a 4-MW steam turbine, a 100,000 pph heat recovery steam generator (HRSG), three 125,000 pph package boilers, and auxiliary equipment. In the analysis, actual system data is used to assess the district heating system performance, energy and exergy efficiencies, exergetic improvement potential and exergy losses. Energy and exergy calculations are conducted for the whole year on an hourly basis. System efficiencies are calculated for a wide range of component operating loads. The results show how thermodynamic analysis can be used to identify the magnitudes and location of energy losses in order to improve the existing system, processes or components.
Suresh, S.; Gopalakrishnan, H.; Kosanovic, D.
Enhancement of historical printed document images by combining Total Variation regularization and Non-local Means filtering
This paper proposes a novel method for document enhancement which combines two recent powerful noise-reduction steps. The first step is based on the Total Variation framework. It flattens background grey-levels and produces an intermediate image where ... Keywords: Character recognition, Document image enhancement, Historical documents, Image processing, Non-local Means, Variational approach
Laurence Likforman-Sulem; J�r�me Darbon; Elisa H. Barney Smith
Evaluation of diurnal thermal energy storage combined with cogeneration systems
This report describes the results of an evaluation of thermal energy storage (TES) integrated with simple gas turbine cogeneration systems. The TES system captures and stores thermal energy from the gas turbine exhaust for immediate or future generation of process heat. Integrating thermal energy storage with conventional cogeneration equipment increases the initial cost of the combined system; but, by decoupling electric power and process heat production, the system offers the following two significant advantages: (1) Electric power can be generated on demand, irrespective of the process heat load profile, thus increasing the value of the power produced; (2) Although supplementary firing could be used to serve independently varying electric and process heat loads, this approach is inefficient. Integrating TES with cogeneration can serve the two independent loads while firing all fuel in the gas turbine. The study evaluated the cost of power produced by cogeneration and cogeneration/TES systems designed to serve a fixed process steam load. The value of the process steam was set at the levelized cost estimated for the steam from a conventional stand-alone boiler. Power costs for combustion turbine and combined-cycle power plants were also calculated for comparison. The results indicated that peak power production costs for the cogeneration/TES systems were between 25% and 40% lower than peak power costs estimated for a combustion turbine and between 15% and 35% lower than peak power costs estimated for a combined-cycle plant. The ranges reflect differences in the daily power production schedule and process steam pressure/temperature assumptions for the cases evaluated. Further cost reductions may result from optimization of current cogeneration/TES system designs and improvement in TES technology through future research and development.
Somasundaram, S.; Brown, D.R.; Drost, M.K.
Radiance: Synthetic Imaging System | Open Energy Information
Radiance: Synthetic Imaging System Radiance: Synthetic Imaging System Jump to: navigation, search Tool Summary Name: RADIANCE Agency/Company /Organization: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Sector: Energy Focus Area: Buildings Resource Type: Software/modeling tools User Interface: Desktop Application Website: radsite.lbl.gov/radiance/ Cost: Free References: Radiance[1] Logo: RADIANCE RADIANCE is a highly accurate ray-tracing software system for UNIX computers that is licensed at no cost in source form. Radiance was developed with primary support from the U.S. Department Of Energy and additional support from the Swiss Federal Government. Radiance is a suite of programs for the analysis and visualization of lighting in design. Input files specify the scene geometry, materials, luminaires,time, date
NETL: Gasification Systems Video, Images & Photos
Video, Images, Photos Video, Images, Photos Gasification Systems Reference Shelf - Video, Images & Photos The following was established to show a variety of Gasification Technologies: Gasfication powerplant photo Gasification: A Cornerstone Technology (Mar 2008) Movie Icon Windows Media Video (WMV-26MB) [ view | download ] NETL is a leader in the science and technology of gasification - a process for the conversion of carbon-based materials such as coal into synthesis gas (syngas) that can be used to produce clean electrical energy, transportation fuels, and chemicals efficiently and cost-effectively using domestic fuel resources. Gasification is a cornerstone technology of 21st century zero emissions powerplants. Proposed APS Advanced Hydrogasification Process Proposed APS Advanced Hydrogasification Process* TRDU and Hot-Gas Vessel in the EERC Gasification Tower Transport reactor development unit
Advanced power systems based on integrated gasification/combined cycles (IGCC) are often presented as a solution to the present shortcomings of biomass as fuel. Although IGCC has been technically demonstrated at full scale, it has not been adopted for commercial power generation. Part of the reason for this situation is the continuing low price for coal. However, another significant barrier to IGCC is the high level of integration of this technology: the gas output from the gasifier must be perfectly matched to the energy demand of the gas turbine cycle. We are developing an alternative to IGCC for biomass power: the integrated (fast) pyrolysis/ combined cycle (IPCC). In this system solid biomass is converted into liquid rather than gaseous fuel. This liquid fuel, called bio-oil, is a mixture of oxygenated organic compounds and water that serves as fuel for a gas turbine topping cycle. Waste heat from the gas turbine provides thermal energy to the steam turbine bottoming cycle. Advantages of the biomass-fueled IPCC system include: combined cycle efficiency exceeding 37 percent efficiency for a system as small as 7.6 MW{sub e}; absence of high pressure thermal reactors; decoupling of fuel processing and power generation; and opportunities for recovering value-added products from the bio-oil. This report provides a technical overview of the system including pyrolyzer design, fuel clean-up strategies, pyrolysate condenser design, opportunities for recovering pyrolysis byproducts, gas turbine cycle design, and Rankine steam cycle. The report also reviews the potential biomass fuel supply in Iowa, provide and economic analysis, and present a summery of benefits from the proposed system.
Eric Sandvig; Gary Walling; Robert C. Brown; Ryan Pletka; Desmond Radlein; Warren Johnson
This report covers the aims and objectives of the project which was to design, install and operate a fuel cell combined heat and power (CHP) system in Woking Park, the first fuel cell CHP system in the United Kingdom. The report also covers the benefits that were expected to accrue from the work in an understanding of the full technology procurement process (including planning, design, installation, operation and maintenance), the economic and environmental performance in comparison with both conventional UK fuel supply and conventional CHP and the commercial viability of fuel cell CHP energy supply in the new deregulated energy markets.
Allan Jones
Combining a thermal-imaging diagnostic with an existing imaging VISAR diagnostic at the National Ignition Facility (NIF)
Optical diagnostics are currently being designed to analyze high-energy density physics experiments at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Two independent line-imaging Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR) interferometers have been fielded to measure shock velocities, breakout times, and emission of targets having sizes of 1-5 mm. An 8-inch-diameter, fused silica triplet lens collects light at f/3 inside the 30-foot-diameter NIF vacuum chamber. VISAR recordings use a 659.5-nm probe laser. By adding a specially coated beam splitter to the interferometer table, light at wavelengths from 540 to 645 nm is spilt into a thermal-imaging diagnostic. Because fused silica lenses are used in the first triplet relay, the intermediate image planes for different wavelengths separate by considerable distances. A corrector lens on the interferometer table reunites these separated wavelength planes to provide a good image. Thermal imaging collects light at f/5 from a 2-mm object placed at Target Chamber Center (TCC). Streak cameras perform VISAR and thermal-imaging recording. All optical lenses are on kinematic mounts so that pointing accuracy of the optical axis may be checked. Counter-propagating laser beams (orange and red) are used to align both diagnostics. The red alignment laser is selected to be at the 50 percent reflection point of the beam splitter. This alignment laser is introduced at the recording streak cameras for both diagnostics and passes through this special beam splitter on its way into the NIF vacuum chamber.
Malone, R; Celeste, J; Celliers, P; Frogget, B; Guyton, R L; Kaufman, M; Lee, T; MacGowan, B; Ng, E W; Reinbachs, I P; Robinson, R B; Seppala, L; Tunnell, T W; Watts, P
Optical diagnostics are currently being designed to analyze high-energy density physics experiments at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). Two independent line-imaging Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector (VISAR) interferometers have been fielded to measure shock velocities, breakout times, and emission of targets having sizes of 1�5 mm. An 8-inch-diameter, fused silica triplet lens collects light at f/3 inside the 30-foot-diameter NIF vacuum chamber. VISAR recordings use a 659.5-nm probe laser. By adding a specially coated beam splitter to the interferometer table, light at wavelengths from 540 to 645 nm is spilt into a thermal-imaging diagnostic. Because fused silica lenses are used in the first triplet relay, the intermediate image planes for different wavelengths separate by considerable distances. A corrector lens on the interferometer table reunites these separated wavelength planes to provide a good image. Thermal imaging collects light at f/5 from a 2-mm object placed at Target Chamber Center (TCC). Streak cameras perform VISAR and thermal-imaging recording. All optical lenses are on kinematic mounts so that pointing accuracy of the optical axis may be checked. Counter-propagating laser beams (orange and red) are used to align both diagnostics. The red alignment laser is selected to be at the 50 percent reflection point of the beam splitter. This alignment laser is introduced at the recording streak cameras for both diagnostics and passes through this special beam splitter on its way into the NIF vacuum chamber.
Robert M. Malone; John R. Celesteb; Peter M. Celliers; Brent C. Froggeta; Robert L. Guyton; Morris I. Kaufman; Tony L. Lee; Brian J. MacGowan; Edmund W. Ng; Imants P. Reinbachs; Ronald B. Robinson; Lynn G. Seppala; Tom W. Tunnell; Phillip W. Watts
Validating an imaging and analysis system for assessing torso deformities
We present the results of the numeric and functional validation of an imaging and analysis system used for assessing human torsos for deformities such as scoliosis. The system comprises of image acquisition, image reconstruction, and shape analysis components. ... Keywords: 3D surface measurement, Laser digitizer, Non-invasive measurement, Scoliosis, Torso imaging, Trunk asymmetry
Peter O. Ajemba; Nelson G. Durdle; Doug L. Hill; V. James Raso
Optimal Maneuvers for Distributed Aperture Imaging Systems
Interest in space-borne, distributed multi-aperture interferometric systems is driven by a need for continuously sustained imaging with high resolution. Amplitude interferometry systems measure the Fourier components of the image corresponding to the wave vectors (locations in the so-called u-v plane) that are proportional to the relative positions of the apertures. Imaging to specified resolution demands measurement of the Fourier components with adequate signal-to-noise ratio over the interior of a disk in the u-v plane (the resolution disk). In this paper we concentrate on the case in which interferometric measurements are made while the apertures are changing their relative positions. This work discusses heuristic maneuvers and strategies for a system of two space-borne telescopes to cover the frequency plane while optimizing a cost function that includes both a measure of image quality and propulsive effort. The current study is motivated by previous research in which the optimization problem was formulated and the first-order necessary conditions (FONC) derived. The earlier work obtained short time horizon solutions to the FONC for various simple situations, but the complexity of the integro-differential equations for optimal maneuvering have heretofore prevented solution for an optimal maneuver for the entirety of the imaging process. In place of a direct attack on the FONC, the present work investigates various heuristic approaches to minimizing the cost function in the discretized state and discretized time domains in a hexagonal coordinate system. Using three classes of coverage rules, experimentation with a variety of maneuver strategies involving two apertures has led to a number of time-optimal or fuel-optimal solutions based on the initial conditions of the spacecraft. This thesis shows that an optimal maneuver can be determined from the starting positions of the spacecraft and that a self-spiral class of motion seems to be the most beneficial for long term strategies. Future work may focus on strategies for interferometric systems with more than two apertures and with a finer mesh of the hexagonal coordinate system.
Fitch, Danielle
Note: Grazing incidence small and wide angle x-ray scattering combined with imaging ellipsometry
The combination of grazing incidence small angle x-ray scattering (GISAXS) and grazing incidence wide angle x-ray scattering (GIWAXS) with optical imaging ellipsometry is presented as an upgrade of the available measurement techniques at the wiggler beamline BW4 of the Hamburger Synchrotronstrahlungslabor. The instrument is introduced with the description of the alignment procedure to assure the measurement of imaging ellipsometry and GISAXS/GIWAXS on the same sample spot. To demonstrate the possibilities of the new instrument examples of morphological investigation on films made of poly(3-hexylthiophene) and [6,6]-phenyl-C{sub 61} butyric acid methyl ester as well as textured poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene-alt-benzo-thia-diazole) are shown.
Koerstgens, V.; Meier, R.; Ruderer, M. A.; Guo, S.; Chiang, H.-Y.; Mueller-Buschbaum, P. [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Physik-Department, Lehrstuhl fuer Funktionelle Materialien, James-Franck-Str. 1, 85748 Garching (Germany); Perlich, J.; Roth, S. V.; Gehrke, R. [HASYLAB, DESY, Notkestr. 85, 22607, Hamburg (Germany)
Integrated gasifier combined cycle polygeneration system to produce liquid hydrogen
An integrated gasifier combined cycle (IGCC) system which simultaneously produces electricity, process steam, and liquid hydrogen was evaluated and compared to IGCC systems which cogenerate electricity and process steam. A number of IGCC plants, all employing a 15 MW gas turbine and producing from 0 to 20 tons per day of liquid hydrogen and from 0 to 20 MW of process steam were considered. The annual revenue required to own and operate such plants was estimated to be significantly lower than the potential market value of the products. The results indicate a significant potential economic benefit to configuring IGCC systems to produce a clean fuel in addition to electricity and process steam in relatively small industrial applications.
Burns, R.K.; Staiger, P.J.; Donovan, R.M.
Subwavelength image manipulation through an oblique layered system
We show in this work an oblique layered system that is capable of manipulating two dimensional subwavelength images. Through properly designed planar layered system, we demonstrate analytically that lateral image shift ...
Fung, Kin Hung
Polarimetric remote sensing system analysis: Digital Imaging and Remote Sensing Image Generation (DIRSIG) model
i Polarimetric remote sensing system analysis: Digital Imaging and Remote Sensing Image Generation CENTER FOR IMAGING SCIENCE Title of Dissertation: Polarimetric remote sensing system analysis: DIRSIG____________________________________________________________ Date #12;vi #12;vii Polarimetric remote sensing system analysis: DIRSIG model validation and impact
Salvaggio, Carl
An automatic image based modeling system by patch growing
In this paper, we present an automatic and efficient image based modeling system which can create objects' 3D models directly from images captured from different viewpoints. The system firstly uses structure from motion to generate camera parameters ... Keywords: automatic, image based modeling, patch, quasi dense, system
Bo Shu; Ting Li; Xianjie Qiu; Zhaoqi Wang
Lighting system combining daylight concentrators and an artificial source
A combined lighting system for a building interior includes a stack of luminescent solar concentrators (LSC), an optical conduit made of preferably optical fibers for transmitting daylight from the LSC stack, a collimating lens set at an angle, a fixture for receiving the daylight at one end and for distributing the daylight as illumination inside the building, an artificial light source at the other end of the fixture for directing artifical light into the fixture for distribution as illumination inside the building, an automatic dimmer/brightener for the artificial light source, and a daylight sensor positioned near to the LSC stack for controlling the automatic dimmer/brightener in response to the daylight sensed. The system also has a reflector positioned behind the artificial light source and a fan for exhausting heated air out of the fixture during summer and for forcing heated air into the fixture for passage into the building interior during winter.
Bornstein, Jonathan G. (Miami, FL); Friedman, Peter S. (Toledo, OH)
Western Area Power Administration. Combined power system financial statements
This report presents the results of the independent certified public accountants` audit of the Western Area Power Administration`s combined power system statements of assets, Federal investment and liabilities, and the related combined statements of revenues, expenses and accumulated net revenues, and cash flows. The auditors` report on Westerns internal control structure disclosed three new reportable conditions concerning the lack of: (1) a reconciliation of stores inventory from subsidiary ledgers to summary financial information, (2) communication of interest during construction and related adjustments to interest on Federal investment, and (3) a system to prevent and detect power billing errors. None of the conditions were considered to be material weaknesses. Western provided concurrence and corrective action plans. The auditors` report on Western`s compliance with laws and regulations also disclosed two new instances of noncompliance. Western failed to calculate nonreimbursable expenses in accordance with the Grand Canyon Protection Act and had an unexplained difference in gross Federal investment balances used to calculate interest on Federal investment. Western provided concurrence and corrective action plans for the instances.
Combination of evidence in recommendation systems characterized by distance functions
Recommendation systems for different Document Networks (DN) such as the World Wide Web (WWW), Digitnl Libarries, or Scientific Databases, often make use of distance functions extracted from relationships among documents and between documents and semantic tags. For instance, documents In the WWW are related via a hyperlink network, while documents in bibliographic databases are related by citation and collaboration networks.Furthermore, documents can be related to semantic tags such as keywords used to describe their content, The distance functions computed from these relations establish associative networks among items of the DN, and allow recommendation systems to identify relevant associations for iudividoal users. The process of recommendation can be improved by integrating associative data from different sources. Thus we are presented with a problem of combining evidence (about assochaons between items) from different sonrces characterized by distance functions. In this paper we summarize our work on (1) inferring associations from semi-metric distance functions and (2) combining evidence from different (distance) associative DN.
Rocha, L. M. (Luis Mateus)
Neutron imaging for geothermal energy systems
Geothermal systems extract heat energy from the interior of the earth using a working fluid, typically water. Three components are required for a commercially viable geothermal system: heat, fluid, and permeability. Current commercial electricity production using geothermal energy occurs where the three main components exist naturally. These are called hydrothermal systems. In the US, there is an estimated 30 GW of base load electrical power potential for hydrothermal sites. Next generation geothermal systems, named Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), have an estimated potential of 4500 GW. EGSs lack in-situ fluid, permeability or both. As such, the heat exchange system must be developed or engineered within the rock. The envisioned method for producing permeability in the EGS reservoir is hydraulic fracturing, which is rarely practiced in the geothermal industry, and not well understood for the rocks typically present in geothermal reservoirs. High costs associated with trial and error learning in the field have led to an effort to characterize fluid flow and fracturing mechanisms in the laboratory to better understand how to design and manage EGS reservoirs. Neutron radiography has been investigated for potential use in this characterization. An environmental chamber has been developed that is suitable for reproduction of EGS pressures and temperatures and has been tested for both flow and precipitations studies with success for air/liquid interface imaging and 3D reconstruction of precipitation within the core.
Bingham, Philip R [ORNL; Anovitz, Lawrence {Larry} M [ORNL; Polsky, Yarom [ORNL
Commissioning Residential Ventilation Commissioning Residential Ventilation Systems: A Combined Assessment of Energy and Air Quality Potential Values William J.N. Turner, Jennifer M. Logue, Craig P. Wray Environmental Energy Technologies Division July 2012 LBNL-5969E Disclaimer This document was prepared as an account of work sponsored by the United States Government. While this document is believed to contain correct information, neither the United States Government nor any agency thereof, nor the Regents of the University of California, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein
A handy imaging system for precision agriculture studies
An inexpensive imaging system able to take various narrow-band images and placed on platforms of various heights can be very useful to many remote-sensing studies, particularly for researchers in precision agriculture areas. A handy imaging system, composed ...
Y. J. Lee; K. W. Chang; Y. Shen; T. M. Huang; H. L. Tsay
The design and development of a high-speed digital imaging system
The goal of this research was to develop a high-speed digital imaging system is a for optically recording dynamic experimental mechanics events. Optical imaging ' valuable tool in the field of experimental mechanics because it yields full-field information about the stresses and displacements which develop in a material under steady-state or transient conditions. The first main design requirement for the system was to have an exposure time of less than fifty nanoseconds in order to avoid streaking of the images. Also, variable interframe times ranging from two to one hundred microseconds were required so that an appropriate time window of the event can be captured. The second main design function required that adequate spatial separation of each of the images be obtained. Finally, the recording medium had to preserve full, undisturbed gray-scale information and allow post-experiment image enhancement and processing to be performed. This last requirement translated into digital storage of the images. The high-speed digital imaging system that has been developed utilizes an acousto-optic deflector, or Bragg cell, to accomplish the necessary spatial separation of the images to be captured. The system employs a pulsed argon laser for its light source and uses a combination of charge-injection device cameras and a frame grabber to capture the images. The system was first evaluated by capturing static images of a test and a photoelastic compression specimen. The next evaluation phase involved grid capturing dynamic images of the stress waves travelling through a photoelastic impact specimen. The essential requirements for any high-speed recording system and the characteristics of existing systems are reviewed first, followed by a discussion of the essential elements of the new system. A detailed description of the arrangement and interaction between the system components is then presented, followed by the results from the evaluation experiments that have been performed. Finally, some comments concerning the further work needed to make the system fully operational are provided.
Thomas, Matthew Ray
Combined Heat and Power Systems (CHP): Capabilities (Fact Sheet)
D&MT Capabilities fact sheet that describes the NREL capabilities related to combined heat and power (CHP).
Not Available
Understanding Emissions from Combined Heat and Power Systems
Combined Heat and Power (CHP) is more energy efficient than separate generation of electricity and thermal energy. In CHP, heat that is normally wasted in conventional power generation is recovered as useful energy for satisfying an existing thermal demand thus avoiding the losses that would otherwise be incurred from separate generation of power. Modeling analyses has demonstrated significant air emissions, transmission and price benefits of clean CHP technologies. Despite these benefits, CHP remains an underutilized technology hindered by a number of disincentives, including treatment under current air quality permitting practice, which does not recognize the efficiency benefits of CHP. Output-based standards begin to address these permitting shortcomings. This paper will discuss how to view emissions from CHP systems from an output-basis and compares emission from different technologies. Treatment of distributed generation is compared with central generation, and emissions from an integrated system that produces more than one usable output are discussed. Regulatory and policy strategies that encourage clear and efficient CHP are also discussed.
Shipley, A. M.; Greene, N.; Carter, S.; Elliott, R. N.
Control of Combined Storage and Generation in Dynamic Distribution Systems
Battery energy storage units provide an added degree of freedom to a microgrid that allows time-shifting between the generation and use of energy. Microgrid energy storage elements are very similar to any other inverter-based source with the exception of bi-directional power flow capabilities. Having the ability to generate and accept power means that the demand and the supply can be disparate by as far as the power capabilities of the energy storage unit allow. This enables combined heat power systems to support a heat load demand independent of local electric power demand. Having an energy storage element on standby also allows for a certain amount of immediately available power to reduce the need for idling or lightly loaded rotating generators under the n-1 stability criterion. The relative speed of any inverter based source allows a sub-cycle change in power output to ensure that dynamic loads will be supplied regardless of the slow reaction of larger rotating sources that require seconds of response time to transients. Thirdly, they can act as a UPS system during grid faults, providing backup power for some time even for non-essential loads while the microgrid is islanded. Lastly, the energy storage element can provide an economic and/or logistical advantage by
Certs Microgrid; Robert Lasseter; Micah Erickson
Coal combined cycle system study. Volume I. Summary
The potential advantages for proceeding with demonstration of coal-fueled combined cycle power plants through retrofit of a few existing utility steam plants have been evaluated. Two combined cycle concepts were considered: Pressurized Fluidized Bed (PFB) combined cycle and gasification combined cycle. These concepts were compared with AFB steam plants, conventional steam plants with Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), and refueling such as with coal-oil mixtures. The ultimate targets are both new plants and conversion of existing plants. Combined cycle plants were found to be most competitive with conventional coal plants and offered lower air emissions and less adverse environmental impact. A demonstration is a necessary step toward commercialization.
Optimal Combination of Distributed Energy System in an Eco-Campus of Japan
Optimal Combination of Distributed Energy System in an Eco-and Renewable Energy, Distributed Energy Program of the U.S.OPTIMAL COMBINATION OF DISTRIBUTED ENERGY SYSTEM IN AN ECO-
Yang, Yongwen; Gao, Weijun; Zhou, Nan; Marnay, Chris
(New imaging systems in nuclear medicine)
Further progress has been made on improving the uniformity and stability of PCR-I, the single ring analog coded tomograph. This camera has been employed in a wide range of animal studies described below. Data from PCR-I have been used in various image processing procedures. These include motion pictures of dog heart, comparison of PET and MRI image in dog heart and rat brain and quantitation of tumor metabolism in the nude mouse using blood data from heart images. A SUN workstation with TAAC board has been used to produce gated three-dimensional images of the dog heart. The ANALYZE program from the Mayo Clinic has also been mounted on a SUN workstation for comparison of images and image processing. 15 refs., 6 figs.
Quantitative luminescence imaging system - Energy Innovation ...
The QLIS images and quantifies low-level chemiluminescent reactions in an electromagnetic field. It is capable of real time nonperturbing measurement and simultaneous ...
Combined System for Observations of Tropospheric and Stratospheric Thin Clouds
A balloonborne sonde and a polarization lidar have been developed to make combined observations of thin tropospheric and stratospheric clouds. In their first application these instruments have been used in a campaign organized to study Antarctic ...
A. Adriani; G. P. Gobbi; M. Viterbini; S. Ugazio
Ultrasonic thickness measuring imaging system and method
This invention is comprised of an ultrasonic thickness measuring and imaging system in which an ultrasonic probe for measuring thickness of an object, such as a wall of tube, a computer for controlling movement of the probe in a scanning pattern within the tube and processing an analog signal produced by the probe which is proportional to the tube wall thickness in the scanning pattern and a line scan recorder for producing a record of the tube wall thicknesses measured by the probe in the scanning pattern. The probe is moved in the scanning pattern to sequentially scan circumferentially the interior tube wall at spaced apart adjacent axial locations. The computer processes the analog signal by converting it to a digital signal into a multiplicity of thickness points with each falling in one of a plurality of thickness ranges corresponding to one of plurality of shades of grey. From the multiplicity of quantified thickness points, a line scan recorder connected to the computer generates a pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses with each quantified thickness point thus being obtained from a minute area of the tube wall and representing one pixel of the pictorial map. In the pictorial map of tube wall thicknesses, the pixels represent different wall thicknesses having different shades of grey.
Bylenok, P.J.; Patmos, W.M.; Wagner, T.A.; Martin, F.H.
Imaging system for cardiac planar imaging using a dedicated dual-head gamma camera
A cardiac imaging system employing dual gamma imaging heads co-registered with one another to provide two dynamic simultaneous views of the heart sector of a patient torso. A first gamma imaging head is positioned in a first orientation with respect to the heart sector and a second gamma imaging head is positioned in a second orientation with respect to the heart sector. An adjustment arrangement is capable of adjusting the distance between the separate imaging heads and the angle between the heads. With the angle between the imaging heads set to 180 degrees and operating in a range of 140-159 keV and at a rate of up to 500kHz, the imaging heads are co-registered to produce simultaneous dynamic recording of two stereotactic views of the heart. The use of co-registered imaging heads maximizes the uniformity of detection sensitivity of blood flow in and around the heart over the whole heart volume and minimizes radiation absorption effects. A normalization/image fusion technique is implemented pixel-by-corresponding pixel to increase signal for any cardiac region viewed in two images obtained from the two opposed detector heads for the same time bin. The imaging system is capable of producing enhanced first pass studies, bloodpool studies including planar, gated and non-gated EKG studies, planar EKG perfusion studies, and planar hot spot imaging.
Majewski, Stanislaw (Morgantown, VA); Umeno, Marc M. (Woodinville, WA)
Solid-state NMR imaging system
An apparatus for use with a solid-state NMR spectrometer includes a special imaging probe with linear, high-field strength gradient fields and high-power broadband RF coils using a back projection method for data acquisition and image reconstruction, and a real-time pulse programmer adaptable for use by a conventional computer for complex high speed pulse sequences.
Gopalsami, Nachappa (Naperville, IL); Dieckman, Stephen L. (Elmhurst, IL); Ellingson, William A. (Naperville, IL)
An accessory for use with a solid-state NMR spectrometer includes a special imaging probe with linear, high-field strength gradient fields and high-power broadband RF coils using a back projection method for data acquisition and image reconstruction, and a real-time pulse programmer adaptable for use by a conventional computer for complex high speed pulse sequences.
Gopalsami, N.; Dieckman, S.L.; Ellingson, W.A.
Combining speech and haptics for intuitive and efficient navigation through image databases
Given the size of todays professional image databases, the stan-dard approach to object- or theme-related image retrieval is to in-teractively navigate through the content. But as most users of such databases are designers or artists who do not have ... Keywords: content-based image retrieval, fusion of haptics, multimodal interface evaluation, speech, vision processing
Thomas K�ster; Michael Pfeiffer; Christian Bauckhage
Los Alamos/Tribogenics create highly portable imaging system
Los Alamos/Tribogenics create highly portable imaging system Los Alamos/Tribogenics create highly portable imaging system Los Alamos/Tribogenics create highly portable imaging system A unique, lightweight, compact, low-cost X-ray system that uses the MiniMAX camera to provide real-time inspection of sealed containers and facilities. June 26, 2013 A hand-held calculator that was X-rayed by Los Alamos National Laboratory researchers using the MiniMAX camera, a lightweight, portable X-ray machine that could revolution imaging of closed containers. A hand-held calculator that was X-rayed by Los Alamos National Laboratory researchers using the MiniMAX camera, a lightweight, portable X-ray machine that could revolution imaging of closed containers. Contact James E. Rickman Communications Office (505) 665-9203 Email We designed MiniMAX to demonstrate that such a system will open up new
Imaging systems and methods for obtaining and using biometric information
Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of imaging systems and methods of using such systems. In one exemplary embodiment, one or more direct images of the body of a clothed subject are received, and a motion signature is determined from the one or more images. In this embodiment, the one or more images show movement of the body of the subject over time, and the motion signature is associated with the movement of the subject's body. In certain implementations, the subject can be identified based at least in part on the motion signature. Imaging systems for performing any of the disclosed methods are also disclosed herein. Furthermore, the disclosed imaging, rendering, and analysis methods can be implemented, at least in part, as one or more computer-readable media comprising computer-executable instructions for causing a computer to perform the respective methods.
McMakin, Douglas L [Richland, WA; Kennedy, Mike O [Richland, WA
Combined Electric Machine and Current Source Inverter Drive System
This integration of these two ORNL ... elimination of several components reduces drive system cost, weight, and volume. ... Energy and Transportation Science Division
Combined permeable pavement and ground source heat pump systems.
??The PhD thesis focuses on the performance assessment of permeable pavement systems incorporating ground source heat pumps (GSHP). The relatively high variability of temperature in� (more)
Grabowiecki, Piotr
Modeling the Performance, Emissions, and Costs of Texaco Gasifier-Based Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Systems.
??Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) systems are an advanced power generation concept with the flexibility to use coal, heavy oils, petroleum coke, biomass, and waste� (more)
Akunuri, Naveen
Combination spindle-drive system for high precision machining
A combination spindle-drive is provided for fabrication of optical quality surface finishes. Both the spindle-and-drive utilize the spindle bearings for support, thereby removing the conventional drive-means bearings as a source of vibration. An airbearing spindle is modified to carry at the drive end a highly conductive cup-shaped rotor which is aligned with a stationary stator to produce torque in the cup-shaped rotor through the reaction of eddy currents induced in the rotor. This arrangement eliminates magnetic attraction forces and all force is in the form of torque on the cup-shaped rotor.
Gerth, Howard L. (Knoxville, TN)
System and method for generating motion corrected tomographic images
A method and related system for generating motion corrected tomographic images includes the steps of illuminating a region of interest (ROI) to be imaged being part of an unrestrained live subject and having at least three spaced apart optical markers thereon. Simultaneous images are acquired from a first and a second camera of the markers from different angles. Motion data comprising 3D position and orientation of the markers relative to an initial reference position is then calculated. Motion corrected tomographic data obtained from the ROI using the motion data is then obtained, where motion corrected tomographic images obtained therefrom.
Gleason, Shaun S. (Knoxville, TN); Goddard, Jr., James S. (Knoxville, TN)
EA-1922: Combined Power and Biomass Heating System, Fort Yukon, Alaska |
2: Combined Power and Biomass Heating System, Fort Yukon, 2: Combined Power and Biomass Heating System, Fort Yukon, Alaska EA-1922: Combined Power and Biomass Heating System, Fort Yukon, Alaska SUMMARY DOE (lead agency), Denali Commission (cooperating agency) and USDA Rural Utilities Services (cooperating agency) are proposing to provide funding to support the final design and construction of a biomass combined heat and power plant and associated district heating system to the Council of Athabascan Tribal Governments and the Gwitchyaa Zhee Corporation. The proposed biomass district heating system would be located in Fort Yukon Alaska. PUBLIC COMMENT OPPORTUNITIES None available at this time. DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD May 6, 2013 EA-1922: Finding of No Significant Impact Combined Power and Biomass Heating System, Fort Yukon, Alaska
Simultaneous hierarchical segmentation and vectorization of satellite images through combined data sampling and anisotropic triangulation
The automatic detection, recognition , and segmentation of object classes in remote sensed images is of crucial importance for scene interpretation and understanding. However, it is a difficult task because of the high variability of satellite data. Indeed, the observed scenes usually exhibit a high degree of complexity, where complexity refers to the large variety of pictorial representations of objects with the same semantic meaning and also to the extensive amount of available det.ails. Therefore, there is still a strong demand for robust techniques for automatic information extraction and interpretation of satellite images. In parallel, there is a growing interest in techniques that can extract vector features directly from such imagery. In this paper, we investigate the problem of automatic hierarchical segmentation and vectorization of multispectral satellite images. We propose a new algorithm composed of the following steps: (i) a non-uniform sampling scheme extracting most salient pixels in the image, (ii) an anisotropic triangulation constrained by the sampled pixels taking into account both strength and directionality of local structures present in the image, (iii) a polygonal grouping scheme merging, through techniques based on perceptual information , the obtained segments to a smaller quantity of superior vectorial objects. Besides its computational efficiency, this approach provides a meaningful polygonal representation for subsequent image analysis and/or interpretation.
Grazzini, Jacopo [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Prasad, Lakshman [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Dillard, Scott [PNNL
Toward a Combined Seasonal Weather and Crop Productivity Forecasting System: Determination of the Working Spatial Scale
A methodology is presented for the development of a combined seasonal weather and crop productivity forecasting system. The first stage of the methodology is the determination of the spatial scale(s) on which the system could operate; this ...
A. J. Challinor; J. M. Slingo; T. R. Wheeler; P. Q. Craufurd; D. I. F. Grimes
A Better Steam Engine: Designing a Distributed Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Power System
A Better Steam Engine: Designing a Distributed Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Power System Callaway Spring 2011 #12;Abstract A Better Steam Engine: Designing a Distributed Concentrating Solar of analysis of Distributed Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Power (DCS-CHP) systems is a design
California at Berkeley, University of
Combined coal gasifier and fuel cell system and method
This report describes a process whereby a molten carbonate fuel cell is combined with a catalytic coal or coal char gasifier for providing the reactant gases comprising hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide used in the operation of the fuel cell. These reactant gases are stripped of sulfur compounds and particulate material and are then separated in discrete gas streams for conveyance to appropriate electrodes in the fuel cell. The gasifier is arranged to receive the reaction products generated at the anode of the fuel cell by the electricity-producing electrochemical reaction therein. These reaction products from the anode are formed primarily of high temperature steam and carbon dioxide to provide the steam, the atmosphere and the heat necessary to endothermically pyrolyze the coal or char in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction products generated at the cathode are substantially formed of carbon dioxide which is used to heat air being admixed with the carbon dioxide stream from the gasifier for providing the oxygen required for the reaction in the fuel cell and for driving an expansion device for energy recovery. A portion of this carbon dioxide from the cathode may be recycled into the fuel cell with the air-carbon dioxide mixture. 1 fig.
Gmeindl, F.D.; Geisbrecht, R.A.
Combined heat recovery and make-up water heating system
A cogeneration plant is described comprising in combination: a first stage source of hot gas; a duct having an inlet for receiving the hot gas and an outlet stack open to the atmosphere; a second stage recovery heat steam generator including an evaporator situated in the duct, and economizer in the duct downstream of the evaporator, and steam drum fluidly connected to the evaporator and the economizer; feedwater supply means including a deaerator heater and feedwater pump for supplying deaerated feedwater to the steam drum through the economizer; makeup water supply means including a makeup pump for delivering makeup water to the deaerator heater; means fluidly connected to the steam drum for supplying auxiliary steam to the deaerator heater; and heat exchanger means located between the deaerator and the economizer, for transferring heat from the feedwater to the makeup water, thereby increasing the temperature of the makeup water delivered to the deaerator and decreasing the temperature of the feedwater delivered to the economizer, without fluid exchange.
Kim, S.Y.
Combined goal gasifier and fuel cell system and method
A molten carbonate fuel cell is combined with a catalytic coal or coal char gasifier for providing the reactant gases comprising hydrogen, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide used in the operation of the fuel cell. These reactant gases are stripped of sulfur compounds and particulate material and are then separated in discrete gas streams for conveyance to appropriate electrodes in the fuel cell. The gasifier is arranged to receive the reaction products generated at the anode of the fuel cell by the electricity-producing electrochemical reaction therein. These reaction products from the anode are formed primarily of high temperature steam and carbon dioxide to provide the steam, the atmosphere and the heat necessary to endothermically pyrolyze the coal or char in the presence of a catalyst. The reaction products generated at the cathode are substantially formed of carbon dioxide which is used to heat air being admixed with the carbon dioxide stream from the gasifier for providing the oxygen required for the reaction in the fuel cell and for driving an expansion device for energy recovery. A portion of this carbon dioxide from the cathode may be recycled into the fuel cell with the air-carbon dioxide mixture.
Gmeindl, Frank D. (Morgantown, WV); Geisbrecht, Rodney A. (New Alexandria, PA)
A WWW interactive progressive local image transmission system
We present a JAVA-based Interactive Progressive Local Image Transmission (IPLIT) system for viewing large images over the bandwidth-limited World Wide Web (WWW) in "reasonable (i.e. usable) time". One motivation behind this research is the need for medical specialists to remotely view medical images, in reasonable time, over the WWW. In our IPLIT system, the user employs a JAVA-enabled Internet browser to view and browse a low resolution image. The identification of features or regions of interest before observing those regions in detail is performed by either selecting a particular region manually via mouse or by utilizing an automatic feature-detection mode. The automatic feature-detection displays high-resolution subimages along a trajectory determined by the user-specified feature of interest. Our program handles 3D image data as a sequence of 2D images. Our IPLIT system is tested on actual MRI, CT and Ultrasound medical images obtained from the Robarts Research Institute at the Un...
Tiffany-Emil Liptay John; John L. Barron; Irene Gargantini
Combined electrophoretic-separation and electrospray method and system
A system and method for analyzing molecular constituents of a composition sample includes: forming a solution of the sample, separating the solution by capillary zone electrophoresis into an eluent of constituents longitudinally separated according to their relative electrophoretic mobilities, electrospraying the eluent to form a charged spray in which the molecular constituents have a temporal distribution; and detecting or collecting the separated constituents in accordance with the temporal distribution in the spray. A first high-voltage (e.g., 5-100 KVDC) is applied to the solution. The spray is charged by applying a second high voltage (e.g., .+-.2-8 KVDC) between the eluent at the capillary exit and a cathode spaced in front of the exit. A complete electrical circuit is formed by a conductor which directly contacts the eluent at the capillary exit.
Smith, Richard D. (Richland, WA); Olivares, Jose A. (Kennewick, WA)
A system and method for analyzing molecular constituents of a composition sample includes: forming a solution of the sample, separating the solution by capillary zone electrophoresis into an eluent of constituents longitudinally separated according to their relative electrophoretic mobilities, electrospraying the eluent to form a charged spray in which the molecular constituents have a temporal distribution; and detecting or collecting the separated constituents in accordance with the temporal distribution in the spray. A first high-voltage (e.g., 5--100 kVDC) is applied to the solution. The spray is charged by applying a second high voltage (e.g., [+-]2--8 kVDC) between the eluent at the capillary exit and a cathode spaced in front of the exit. A complete electrical circuit is formed by a conductor which directly contacts the eluent at the capillary exit. 10 figs.
Smith, R.D.; Olivares, J.A.
Combination of diffusion tensor and functional magnetic resonance imaging during recovery from the vegetative state.
in functional neuroimaging. J Cogn Neurosci 2003, 15:394-408. 35. Genovese CR, Lazar NA, Nichols T: Thresholding of statistical maps in functional neuroimaging using the false discovery rate. NeuroImage 2002, 15:870-878. 36. Vigneau M, Beaucousin V, Herv� PY...
Fernandez-Espejo, Davinia; Junque, Carme; Cruse, Damian; Bernabeu, Montserrat; Roig-Rovira, Teresa; Fabregas, Neus; Rivas, Eva; Mercader, Jose M
An Airborne APT Weather Satellite Imaging System
This paper describes the development of a novel airborne system that receives a real-time imagery broadcast in the Automatic Picture Transmission (APT) format from polar-orbiting weather satellites. The availability of such real-time imagery ...
James E. Jordan; David L. Marcotte; G. W. K. Moore
Virtually distortion-free imaging system for large field, high resolution lithography
Virtually distortion free large field high resolution imaging is performed using an imaging system which contains large field distortion or field curvature. A reticle is imaged in one direction through the optical system to form an encoded mask. The encoded mask is then imaged back through the imaging system onto a wafer positioned at the reticle position.
Hawryluk, Andrew M. (Modesto, CA); Ceglio, Natale M. (Livermore, CA)
Reflective optical imaging system for extreme ultraviolet wavelengths
This invention is comprised of a projection reflection optical system having two mirrors in a coaxial, four reflection configuration to reproduce the image of an object. The mirrors have aspherical reflection surfaces to provide a very high resolution of object feature wavelengths less than 200 {mu}m, and preferably less than 100 {mu}m. An image resolution of features less than 0.05--0.1 {mu}m, is obtained over a large area field; i.e., 25.4 mm {times} 25.4 mm, with a distortion less than 0.1 of the resolution over the image field.
Viswanathan, V.K.; Newnam, B.E.
Combination of fluorescence imaging and local spectrophotometry in fluorescence diagnostics of early cancer of larynx and bronchi
The results of comparative studies of autofluorescence and 5-ALA-induced fluorescence of protoporphyrin IX, used in the diagnostics of early cancer of larynx and bronchi, are presented. The autofluorescence and 5-ALA-induced fluorescence images of larynx and bronchial tissues are analysed during the endoscopic study. The method of local spectrophotometry is used to verify findings obtained from fluorescence images. It is shown that such a combined approach can be efficiently used to improve the diagnostics of precancer and early cancer, to detect a primary multiple tumours, as well as for the diagnostics of a residual tumour or an early recurrence after the endoscopic, surgery or X-ray treatment. The developed approach allows one to minimise the number of false-positive results and to reduce the number of biopsies, which are commonly used in the white-light bronchoscopy search for occult cancerous loci. (laser biology and medicine)
Sokolov, Vladimir V; Filonenko, E V; Telegina, L V [P.A. Hertsen Moscow Research Oncological Institute, Moscow (Russian Federation); Boulgakova, N N; Smirnov, V V [A.M. Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow (Russian Federation)
High speed infrared imaging system and method
A system and method for radiation detection with an increased frame rate. A semi-parallel processing configuration is used to process a row or column of pixels in a focal-plane array in parallel to achieve a processing rate up to and greater than 1 million frames per second.
Zehnder, Alan T. (Ithaca, NY); Rosakis, Ares J. (Altadena, CA); Ravichandran, G. (Arcadia, CA)
Application of RBF-type ARX Modeling and Control to Gas Turbine Combined Cycle SCR Systems
Application of RBF-type ARX Modeling and Control to Gas Turbine Combined Cycle SCR Systems Y, nonlinear model-based predictive control, energy saving. 1. INTRODUCTION In Japan, GTCC(Gas Turbine Combined gas-firing GTCC power plant is most effective in terms of thermal efficiency and lower CO2 energy
Ozaki, Tohru
A generic, geometric cocalibration method for a combined system of fluorescence molecular tomography and microcomputed tomography with arbitrarily shaped objects
Purpose: A combined system of fluorescence molecular tomography and microcomputed tomography (FMT and mCT) can provide molecular and anatomical information of small animals in a single study with intrinsically coregistered images. The anatomical information provided by the mCT subsystem is commonly used as a reference to locate the fluorophore distribution or as a priori structural information to improve the performance of FMT. Therefore, the transformation between the coordinate systems of the subsystem needs to be determined in advanced. Methods: A cocalibration method for the combined system of FMT and mCT is proposed. First, linear models are adopted to describe the galvano mirrors and the charge-coupled device (CCD) camera in the FMT subsystem. Second, the position and orientation of the galvano mirrors are determined with the input voltages of the galvano mirrors and the markers, whose positions are predetermined. The position, orientation and normalized pixel size of the CCD camera are obtained by analysing the projections of a point-like marker at different positions. Finally, the orientation and position of sources and the corresponding relationship between the detectors and their projections on the image plane are predicted. Because the positions of the markers are acquired with mCT, the registration of the FMT and mCT could be realized by direct image fusion. Results: The accuracy and consistency of this method in the presence of noise is evaluated by computer simulation. Next, a practical implementation for an experimental FMT and mCT system is carried out and validated. The maximum prediction error of the source positions on the surface of a cylindrical phantom is within 0.375 mm and that of the projections of a point-like marker is within 0.629 pixel. Finally, imaging experiments of the fluorophore distribution in a cylindrical phantom and a phantom with a complex shape demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method. Conclusions: This method is universal in FMT and mCT, which could be performed with no restriction on the system geometry, calibration phantoms or imaging objects.
Fu Jianwei; Yang Xiaoquan; Wang Kan; Luo Qingming; Gong Hui [Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430074 (China) and Key Laboratory of Biomedical Photonics of Ministry of Education, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430074 (China); Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430074 (China); Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430074 (China) and Key Laboratory of Biomedical Photonics of Ministry of Education, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430074 (China)
Feasibility of an image planning system for kilovoltage image-guided radiation therapy
Purpose: Image guidance has become a standard of care for many treatment scenarios in radiation therapy. This is most typically accomplished by use of kV x-ray devices mounted onto the linear accelerator (Linac) gantry that yield planar, fluoroscopic, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. Image acquisition parameters are chosen via preset techniques that rely on broad categorizations in patient anatomy and imaging goal. However, the optimal imaging technique results in detectability of the features of interest while exposing the patient to minimum dose. Herein, the authors present an investigation into the feasibility of developing an image planning system (IPS) for radiotherapy.Methods: In this first phase, the authors focused on developing an algorithm to predict tissue contrast produced by a common radiotherapy planar imaging chain. Input parameters include a CT dataset and simulated planar imaging technique settings that include kV and mAs. Energy-specific attenuation through each voxel of the CT dataset was calculated in the algorithm to derive a net transmitted intensity. The response of the flat panel detector was integrated into the image simulation algorithm. Verification was conducted by comparing simulated and measured images using four phantoms. Comparisons were made in both high and low contrast settings, as well as changes in the geometric appearance due to image saturation. Results: The authors studied a lung nodule test object to assess the planning system's ability to predict object contrast and detectability. Verification demonstrated that the slope of the pixel intensities is similar, the presence of the nodule is evident, and image saturation at high mAs values is evident in both images. The appearance of the lung nodule is a function of the image detector saturation. The authors assessed the dimensions of the lung nodule in measured and simulated images. Good quantitative agreement affirmed the algorithm's predictive capabilities. The invariance of contrast with kVp and mAs prior to saturation was predicted, as well as the gradual loss of object detectability as saturation was approached. Small changes in soft tissue density were studied using a mammography step wedge phantom. Data were acquired at beam qualities of 80 and 120 kVp and over exposure values ranging from 0.04 to 500 mAs. The data showed good agreement in terms of the absolute value of pixel intensities predicted, as well as small variations across the step wedge pattern. The saturation pixel intensity was consistent between the two beam qualities studied. Boney tissue contrast was assessed using two abdominal phantoms. Measured and calculated values agree in terms of predicting the mAs value at which detector saturation, and subsequent loss of contrast occurs. The lack of variation in contrast over mAs values lower than 10 suggests that there is wide latitude for minimizing patient dose. Conclusions: The authors developed and tested an algorithm that can be used to assist in kV imaging technique selection during localization for radiotherapy. Phantom testing demonstrated the algorithm's predictive accuracy for both low and high contrast imaging scenarios. Detector saturation with subsequent loss of imaging detail, both in terms of object size and contrast were accurately predicted by the algorithm.
Thapa, Bishnu B.; Molloy, Janelle A. [Department of Radiation Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0293 (United States)
DADICC: Intelligent system for anomaly detection in a combined cycle gas turbine plant
DADICC is the abbreviated name for an intelligent system able to detect on-line and diagnose anomalies as soon as possible in the dynamic evolution of the behaviour of a power plant based on a combined cycle gas turbine. In order to reach this objective, ... Keywords: Anomaly detection, Diagnosis, Expert system, Multi-agent system, Neural network, Normal behaviour
Antonio Arranz; Alberto Cruz; Miguel A. Sanz-Bobi; Pablo Ru�z; Josu� Couti�o
Combining artificial neural networks and heuristic rules in a hybrid intelligent load forecast system
In this work, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is combined to Heuristic Rules producing a powerful hybrid intelligent system for short and mid-term electric load forecasting. The Heuristic Rules are used to adjust the ANN output to improve the system ... Keywords: artificial neural networks, electric load forecast, heuristic rules, hybrid system
Ronaldo R. B. de Aquino; Aida A. Ferreira; Manoel A. Carvalho, Jr.; Milde M. S. Lira; Geane B. Silva; Otoni N�brega Neto
Mild Hybrid System in Combination with Waste Heat Recovery for Commercial Vehicles.
?? Performance of two different waste heat recovery systems (one based on Rankine cycle and the other one using thermoelectricity) combined with non-hybrid, mild-hybrid and� (more)
Namakian, Mohsen
Minimum bayes risk decoding with enlarged hypothesis space in system combination
This paper describes a new system combination strategy in Statistical Machine Translation. Tromble et al. (2008) introduced the evidence space into Minimum Bayes Risk decoding in order to quantify the relative performance within lattice or n-best output ...
Tsuyoshi Okita; Josef van Genabith
Expert Meeting Report: Recommendations for Applying Water Heaters in Combination Space and Domestic Water Heating Systems
The topic of this meeting was 'Recommendations For Applying Water Heaters In Combination Space And Domestic Water Heating Systems.' Presentations and discussions centered on the design, performance, and maintenance of these combination systems, with the goal of developing foundational information toward the development of a Building America Measure Guideline on this topic. The meeting was held at the Westford Regency Hotel, in Westford, Massachusetts on 7/31/2011.
Rudd, A.; Ueno, K.; Bergey, D.; Osser, R.
Optimal Operation Scheme for a Cogeneration System Promoted from an Emergency Standby System Combined with Absorption Chiller
A novel optimal operation scheme for a cogeneration system that is promoted from an emergency standby system combined with absorption chiller is introduced. The fuel cost, Time-of-use (TOU) tariff and various operational constrains are taken into account ... Keywords: cogeneration system, Time-of-use tariff, optimal operation scheme
Shyi-Wen Wang
HUMAN BRAIN IMAGING AT 9.4 TESLA USING A COMBINATION OF TRAVELING WAVE EXCITATION WITH A 15-CHANNEL is a successful setup for routine human brain imaging at 7 Tesla. For reception, the use of multiple surface coils multichannel transmit coils. At 9.4 Tesla, however, the even shorter RF wavelength in tissue causes the B1
Generating color terrain images in an emergency response system
The Atmospheric Release Advisory Capability (ARAC) provides real-time assessments of the consequences resulting from an atmospheric release of radioactive material. In support of this operation, a system has been created which integrates numerical models, data acquisition systems, data analysis techniques, and professional staff. Of particular importance is the rapid generation of graphical images of the terrain surface in the vicinity of the accident site. A terrain data base and an associated acquisition system have been developed that provide the required terrain data. This data is then used as input to a collection of graphics programs which create and display realistic color images of the terrain. The graphics system currently has the capability of generating color shaded relief images from both overhead and perspective viewpoints within minutes. These images serve to quickly familiarize ARAC assessors with the terrain near the release location, and thus permit them to make better informed decisions in modeling the behavior of the released material. 7 refs., 8 figs.
Belles, R.D.
Control system for single shaft combined cycle gas and steam turbine unit
This patent describes a method for starting and controlling a combined cycle turbine of the type having a gas turbine with a fuel flow control valve and a steam turbine with at least one steam control valve both disposed on a single shaft and having a heat recovery steam generator heated by the gas turbine and connected to supply steam to the steam control valve, the combined cycle turbine having a unified control system and driving a load, and also having an auxiliary steam source connected to the steam control valve. It comprises controlling of steam from the auxiliary steam source with the steam control valve to crank the combined cycle turbine for starting, initiating and controlling fuel flow to the gas turbine with the fuel flow control valve and initiating combustion, controlling initial acceleration of the combined cycle turbine with the steam control valve on auxiliary steam, coordinating control of the combined cycle turbine by the steam control valve and the fuel control valve with the unified control system, transferring acceleration control during a smooth acceleration phase of the combined cycle turbine by the steam control valve and the fuel control valve with the unified control system, transferring acceleration control during a smooth acceleration phase of the combined cycle turbine to the fuel flow control valve and gradually reducing the opening of the steam control valve to a minimum value when the turbine reaches rated speed.
Moore, J.H.; Kure-Jensen, J.; Rowen, W.I.
The Added Economic and Environmental Value of Solar Thermal Systems in Microgrids with Combined Heat and Power
N. et al. , (2007), �Microgrids, An Overview of OngoingSolar Thermal Systems in Microgrids with Combined Heat andSolar Thermal Systems in Microgrids with Combined Heat and
Marnay, Chris
Combined cycle solar central receiver hybrid power system study. Volume III. Appendices. Final technical report
A design study for a 100 MW gas turbine/steam turbine combined cycle solar/fossil-fuel hybrid power plant is presented. This volume contains the appendices: (a) preconceptual design data; (b) market potential analysis methodology; (c) parametric analysis methodology; (d) EPGS systems description; (e) commercial-scale solar hybrid power system assessment; and (f) conceptual design data lists. (WHK)
Performance analysis of the combined EDS maglev propulsion, levitation, and guidance system
An analysis of the Japanese maglev system which uses only one set of coils in the guideway for combined levitation, propulsion, and guidance functions is presented in this paper. This preliminary study, using the dynamic circuit approach, indicates that the system is very promising.
He, J.L.; Coffey, H.T.; Rote, D.M.
Cost and performance analysis of biomass-based integrated gasification combined-cycle (BIGCC) power systems
To make a significant contribution to the power mix in the United States biomass power systems must be competitive on a cost and efficiency basis. We describe the cost and performance of three biomass-based integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) systems. The economic viability and efficiency performance of the IGCC generation technology appear to be quite attractive.
Craig, K. R.; Mann, M. K.
Image Quality and Radiation Dose Assessment of a Digital Mammography System
Image quality and radiation dose of a direct amorphous selenium digital mammography system were considered in terms of contrast to noise ratio (CNR) and average glandular dose (AGD). They were measured for various qualities and breast phantom thicknesses with different types of breast tissue composition to determine optimal radiation quality and dose. Three sets of breast tissue equivalent slabs (30%:70%, 50%:50% and 70%:30% glandular-adipose) with thickness of 2 cm to 7 cm and 0.2 mm aluminum foil were used to provide certain CNR. Two different combinations of anode/ilter material and a wide range of tube voltages were employed for each phantom thickness. Phantom images with grid were acquired using automatic exposure control (AEC) mode for each thickness. Phantom images without grid were also obtained in manual exposure mode by selecting the same anode/filter combination and kVp as the image obtained with grid at the same thickness, but varying mAs of 10 to 200 mAs. Optimization indicated that relatively high energy beam qualities should be used with a greater dose to compensate for lower energy x-rays. The results also indicate that current AEC setting for a fixed detector is not optimal.
Isa, N. M.; Hassan, W. M. S. W. [Department of Physics, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor (Malaysia); Abdullah, W. A. K. W. [Department of Radiology, Hospital USM, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan (Malaysia); Othman, F. [Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Hospital Putrajaya, Pres, 62250 Putrajaya, Walayah Persekutuan (Malaysia); Ramli, A. A. M. [Malaysian Nuclear Agency, 43000 Kajang, Selangor (Malaysia)
Three-dimensional medical imaging: algorithms and computer systems
Keywords: Computer graphics, medical imaging, surface rendering, three-dimensional imaging, volume rendering
M. R. Stytz; G. Frieder; O. Frieder
Advanced CO2 Capture Technology for Low Rank Coal Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) Systems
CO CO 2 Capture Technology for Low Rank Coal Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) Systems Background Gasification of coal or other solid feedstocks (wood waste, petroleum coke, etc.) is a clean way to produce electricity and produce or co-produce a variety of commercial products. The major challenge is cost reduction; current integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) technology is estimated to produce power at a cost higher than that of pulverized coal combustion. However, the Gasification
Generation Maintenance Application Center: Fuel Gas System for Combustion Turbine Combined Cycle Plant Maintenance Guide
This guide provides information to assist personnel involved with the maintenance of the fuel gas system at a gas turbine combined cycle facility, including good maintenance practices, preventive maintenance techniques and troubleshooting guidance.�BackgroundCombustion turbine combined cycle (CTCC) facilities utilize various components that can be unique to this particular type of power plant. As such, owners and operators of CTCC facilities may find ...
Astronomers capture first images of newly-discovered solar system
Direct Imaging of Multiple Planets Orbiting the Star HR 8799, Science Express Nov. 13, 2008 Direct Imaging of Multiple Planets Orbiting the Star HR 8799, Science Express Nov. 13, 2008 Extending the search for extrasolar planets Science & Technology Review, March/April 2008 (PDF) International team discovers new solar system with scaled-down version of Jupiter and Saturn, LLNL news release, Feb. 14, 2008 Adaptive optics provide a clearer view, Science & Technology Review, June 2006 Adaptive optics leads the way to supermassive black holes, LLNL news release, May 17, 2007 Lab optics will clear the way to search for giant planets, LLNL news release, Sept. 23, 2005 W.M. Keck Observatory Gemini Observatory Gemini Planet Imager Lowell Observatory Herzberg Institute of Astrophysics Ben Zuckerman-UCLA Social Media Logos Follow LLNL on YouTube Subscribe to LLNL's RSS feed Follow LLNL on Facebook Follow LLNL on Twitter Follow LLNL on Flickr
Power Quality Investigation at a Midwest Hospital: Magnetic Resonance Imaging System
Recently, a Midwest hospital contacted its electric utility about malfunctions involving imaging systems including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). The MRI system was the primary concern for the hospital. The MRI system was manufactured by a leading imaging system manufacturer and the CT system was manufactured by another leading imaging system manufacturer. To begin investigating the problem, the hospital requested that power-line monitoring be conducted at the facility. Th...
Evaluation of diurnal thermal energy storage combined with cogeneration systems. Phase 2
This report describes the results of a study of thermal energy storage (TES) systems integrated with combined-cycle gas turbine cogeneration systems. Integrating thermal energy storage with conventional cogeneration equipment increases the initial cost of the combined system; but, by decoupling electric power and process heat production, the system offers two significant advantages. First, electric power can be generated on demand, irrespective of the process heat load profile, thus increasing the value of the power produced. Second, although supplementary firing could be used to serve independently varying electric and process heat loads, this approach is inefficient. Integrating TES with cogeneration can serve the two independent loads while firing all fuel in the gas turbine. An earlier study analyzed TES integrated with a simple-cycle cogeneration system. This follow-on study evaluated the cost of power produced by a combined-cycle electric power plant (CC), a combined-cycle cogeneration plant (CC/Cogen), and a combined-cycle cogeneration plant integrated with thermal energy storage (CC/TES/Cogen). Each of these three systems was designed to serve a fixed (24 hr/day) process steam load. The value of producing electricity was set at the levelized cost for a CC plant, while the value of the process steam was for a conventional stand-alone boiler. The results presented here compared the costs for CC/TES/Cogen system with those of the CC and the CC/Cogen plants. They indicate relatively poor economic prospects for integrating TES with a combined-cycle cogeneration power plant for the assumed designs. The major reason is the extremely close approach temperatures at the storage media heaters, which makes the heaters large and therefore expensive.
Anatomic and electro-physiologic connectivity of the language system: A combined DTI-CCEP study
Here we present a novel multimodal analysis of network connectivity in the language system. We assessed connectivity of Broca's area using tractography with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and with cortico-cortical evoked potentials (CCEPs) to measure ... Keywords: Arcuate fasciculus, Articulation, Broca's area, Connectivity, Cortico-cortical evoked potentials, Diffusion-weighted MRI, Epilepsy, Intracranial stimulation, Language, Phonation
Christopher R. Conner; Timothy M. Ellmore; Michael A. DiSano; Thomas A. Pieters; Andrew W. Potter; Nitin Tandon
Energy impacts of controlling carbon dioxide emissions from an integrated gasification/combined-cycle system
This paper presents results from a study of the impacts associated with CO{sub 2} recovery in integrated gasification/combined-cycle (IGCC) systems which is being conducted for the Morgantown Energy Technology Center by Argonne National Laboratory. The objective of the study is to compare, on a consistent systems-oriented basis, the energy and economic impacts of adding CO{sub 2} capture and sequestration to an IGCC system. The research reported here has emphasized commercial technologies for capturing CO{sub 2}, but ongoing work is also addressing advanced technologies under development and alternate power-system configurations that may enhance system efficiency.
Livengood, C.D.; Doctor, R.D.; Molburg, J.C.; Thimmapuram, P.
Measure Guideline: Combination Forced-Air Space and Tankless Domestic Hot Water Heating Systems
This document describes design and application guidance for combination space and tankless domestic hot water heating systems (combination systems) used in residential buildings, based on field evaluation, testing, and industry meetings conducted by Building Science Corporation. As residential building enclosure improvements continue to drive heating loads down, using the same water heating equipment for both space heating and domestic water heating becomes attractive from an initial cost and space-saving perspective. This topic is applicable to single- and multi-family residential buildings, both new and retrofitted.
Rudd, A.
Apparatus and methods for supplying auxiliary steam in a combined cycle system
To provide auxiliary steam, a low pressure valve is opened in a combined cycle system to divert low pressure steam from the heat recovery steam generator to a header for supplying steam to a second combined cycle's steam turbine seals, sparging devices and cooling steam for the steam turbine if the steam turbine and gas turbine lie on a common shaft with the generator. Cooling steam is supplied the gas turbine in the combined cycle system from the high pressure steam turbine. Spent gas turbine cooling steam may augment the low pressure steam supplied to the header by opening a high pressure valve whereby high and low pressure steam flows are combined. An attemperator is used to reduce the temperature of the combined steam in response to auxiliary steam flows above a predetermined flow and a steam header temperature above a predetermined temperature. The auxiliary steam may be used to start additional combined cycle units or to provide a host unit with steam turbine cooling and sealing steam during full-speed no-load operation after a load rejection.
Gorman, William G. (Ballston Spa, NY); Carberg, William George (Ballston Spa, NY); Jones, Charles Michael (Ballston Lake, NY)
Image Recognition System for Automated Lighting Retrofit Assessment
Buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of all US energy use and carbon emissions. Lighting technologies continue to evolve, leading to potential energy savings through retrofits of lighting systems. Building lighting systems is typically the first item evaluated by commercial and industrial energy auditors. This paper presents the first phase of a project to develop unmanned aerial and ground vehicles capable of conducting autonomous energy audits of commercial buildings. The paper presents a prototype system that can enumerate and classify the lighting in a building using an optical camera, accelerometer, spectrometer, and distance sensor. As the aerial vehicle navigates throughout a room, the prototype system captures images and collects frequency data of lighting. The system employs image recognition techniques to quantify lighting in each room. Using the unique frequency spectrum of each lighting type, the prototype system classifies the different types of lighting with the spectrometer. An accompanying software program then analyzes the quantity and type of lighting to recommend economical alternatives, or lighting retrofits.
Venable, K.; Bhatia, D.; Coverick, R.; Gutierrez, C.; Knight, J.; McGarry, D.; McGee, K.; Smith, Z.; Terrill, T. J.; Vanderford, B.; Weiser, R.; Wightman, K.; Rasmussen, B. P.
CFD Simulation and Analysis of the Combined Evaporative Cooling and Radiant Ceiling Air-conditioning System
Due to such disadvantages as large air duct and high energy consumption of the current all- outdoor air evaporative cooling systems used in the dry region of Northwest China, as well as the superiority of the ceiling cooling system in improving thermal comfort and saving energy, a combined system is presented in this paper. It combines an evaporative cooling system with ceiling cooling, in which the evaporative cooling system handles the entire latent load and one part of the sensible loads, and the ceiling cooling system deals with the other part of sensible loads in the air-conditioned zone, so that the condensation on radiant panels and the insufficiency of cooling capacity can be avoided. The cooling water at 18? used in the cooling coils of ceiling cooling system can be ground water, tap water or the cooled water from cooling towers in the summer. This new air-conditioning system and existing all- outdoor air evaporative cooling system are applied to a project in the city of Lanzhou. Energy consumption analysis of the building is carried out using the energy consumption code. Velocity and temperature distribution in the air-conditioned zone is computed using CFD. According to the results, the energy consumption and indoor human thermal comfort of both systems are then compared. It is concluded that the new system occupies less building space, reduces energy consumption, improves indoor human thermal comfort and saves initial investment.
Xiang, H.; Yinming, L.; Junmei, W.
A Preliminary Study on Designing Combined Heat and Power (CHP) System for the University Environment
Combined heat and power (CHP) systems are an evolving technology that is at the front of the energy conservation movement. With the reduction in energy consumption and green house gas emissions, CHP systems are improving the efficiency of power generation. Our goal for this research is to develop a specification for a CHP System that will improve the University of Louisiana at Lafayette�s operating efficiency. This system will reduce the operating cost of the university and provide reliable, clean energy to the College of Engineering and surrounding buildings. If this system is implemented correctly, it has the ability to meet the economic and reliability needs of the university. CHP systems are the combination of various forms of equipment to meet the electrical and thermal needs from one single fuel source. Major steps involved in the development of a CHP system including data collection and analysis, system calculations and system specifications will be discussed. This research also examines the barriers that CHP systems encounter with environmental regulations and grid interconnection.
Kozman, T. A.; Reynolds, C. M.; Lee, J.
Assessment of Residential Combined Heat and Power Systems: Application Benefits and Vendors
This report provides an analysis of the benefits of installing a residential combined heat and power (RCHP) plant in several U.S. geographies and under a number of dispatch scenarios. The report also provides an assessment of 14 companies developing or selling RCHP systems in North American, Europe, and Japan.
Imaging Print Imaging Print The wavelengths of soft x-ray photons (1-15 nm) are very well matched to the creation of "nanoscopes" capable of probing the interior structure of biological cells and inorganic mesoscopic systems.Topics addressed by soft x-ray imaging techniques include cell biology, nanomagnetism, environmental science, and polymers. The tunability of synchrotron radiation is absolutely essential for the creation of contrast mechanisms. Cell biology CAT scans are performed in the "water window" (300-500 eV). Nanomagnetism studies require the energy range characteristic of iron, cobalt, and nickel (600-900 eV). Mid- and far-infrared (energies below 1 eV) microprobes using synchrotron radiation are being used to address problems such as chemistry in biological tissues, chemical identification and molecular conformation, environmental biodegradation, mineral phases in geological and astronomical specimens, and electronic properties of novel materials. Infrared synchrotron radiation is focused through, or reflected from, a small spot on the specimen and then analyzed using a spectrometer. Tuning to characteristic vibrational frequencies serves as a sensitive fingerprint for molecular species. Images of the various species are built up by raster scanning the specimen through the small illuminated spot.
Mean field limit of bosonic systems in partially factorized states and their linear combinations
We study the mean field limit of one-particle reduced density matrices, for a bosonic system in an initial state with a fixed number of particles, only a fraction of which occupies the same state, and for linear combinations of such states. In the mean field limit, the time-evolved reduced density matrix is proved to converge: in trace norm, towards a rank one projection (on the state solution of Hartree equation) for a single state; in Hilbert-Schmidt norm towards a mixed state, combination of projections on different solutions (corresponding to each initial datum), for states that are a linear superposition.
Marco Falconi
A liquid crystal tunable filter based shortwave infrared spectral imaging system: Design and integration
This paper presents the methodology to design and integrate a liquid crystal tunable filter (LCTF) based shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectral imaging system. The system consisted of an LCTF-based SWIR spectral imager, an illumination unit, a frame grabber, ... Keywords: Food quality and safety, Hyperspectral imaging, LCTF, Nondestructive inspection, SWIR, System design
Weilin Wang; Changying Li; Ernest W. Tollner; Glen C. Rains; Ronald D. Gitaitis
A New System to Perform Unsupervised and Supervised Classification of Satellite Images from Google Maps
A New System to Perform Unsupervised and Supervised Classification of Satellite Images from Google of satellite images from Google Maps. The system has been developed using the SwingX-WS library Systems ENVI package. Keywords: Satellite image classification, Google Maps. 1. INTRODUCTION The wealth
Plaza, Antonio J.
A liquid crystal tunable filter based shortwave infrared spectral imaging system: Calibration and characterization
Calibration is a critical step for developing spectral imaging systems. This paper presents a systematic calibration and characterization approach for a liquid crystal tunable filter (LCTF) based shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectral imaging system. A series ... Keywords: Characterization, Inspection, LCTF, Shortwave infrared, Spectral imaging, System calibration
Automatic expert system based on images for accuracy crop row detection in maize fields
This paper proposes an automatic expert system for accuracy crop row detection in maize fields based on images acquired from a vision system. Different applications in maize, particularly those based on site specific treatments, require the identification ... Keywords: Crop row detection in maize fields, Expert system, Image segmentation, Image thresholding, Linear regression, Machine vision, Theil-Sen estimator
J. M. Guerrero; M. Guijarro; M. Montalvo; J. Romeo; L. Emmi; A. Ribeiro; G. Pajares
and/or cooling, and micro-CHP systems in the Californiaand/or cooling, and micro-CHP systems with and without heatmicro-generation systems, e.g. fuel cells with or without combined heat and power (CHP)
Investigation of the Degradation Mechanisms of a Variety of Organic Photovoltaic Devices by Combination of Imaging Techniques - The ISOS-3 Inter-Laboratory Collaboration
The investigation of degradation of seven distinct sets (with a number of individual cells of n {>=} 12) of state of the art organic photovoltaic devices prepared by leading research laboratories with a combination of imaging methods is reported. All devices have been shipped to and degraded at Riso DTU up to 1830 hours in accordance with established ISOS-3 protocols under defined illumination conditions. Imaging of device function at different stages of degradation was performed by laser-beam induced current (LBIC) scanning; luminescence imaging, specifically photoluminescence (PLI) and electroluminescence (ELI); as well as by lock-in thermography (LIT). Each of the imaging techniques exhibits its specific advantages with respect to sensing certain degradation features, which will be compared and discussed here in detail. As a consequence, a combination of several imaging techniques yields very conclusive information about the degradation processes controlling device function. The large variety of device architectures in turn enables valuable progress in the proper interpretation of imaging results -- hence revealing the benefits of this large scale cooperation in making a step forward in the understanding of organic solar cell aging and its interpretation by state-of-the-art imaging methods.
Rosch, R.; Tanenbaum, D. M.; Jrgensen, M.; Seeland, M.; Barenklau, M.; Hermenau, M.; Voroshazi, E.; Lloyd, M. T.; Galagan, Y.; Zimmermann, B.; Wurfel, U.; Hosel, M.; Dam, H. F.; Gevorgyan, S. A.; Kudret, S.; Maes, W.; Lutsen, L.; Vanderzande, D.; Andriessen, R.; Teran-Escobar, G.
Investigation of the Degradation Mechanisms of a Variety of Organic Photovoltaic Devices by Combination of Imaging Techniques�the ISOS-3Inter-laboratory Collaboration
The investigation of degradation of seven distinct sets (with a number of individual cells of n {ge} 12) of state of the art organic photovoltaic devices prepared by leading research laboratories with a combination of imaging methods is reported. All devices have been shipped to and degraded at Risoe DTU up to 1830 hours in accordance with established ISOS-3 protocols under defined illumination conditions. Imaging of device function at different stages of degradation was performed by laser-beam induced current (LBIC) scanning; luminescence imaging, specifically photoluminescence (PLI) and electroluminescence (ELI); as well as by lock-in thermography (LIT). Each of the imaging techniques exhibits its specific advantages with respect to sensing certain degradation features, which will be compared and discussed here in detail. As a consequence, a combination of several imaging techniques yields very conclusive information about the degradation processes controlling device function. The large variety of device architectures in turn enables valuable progress in the proper interpretation of imaging results - hence revealing the benefits of this large scale cooperation in making a step forward in the understanding of organic solar cell aging and its interpretation by state-of-the-art imaging methods.
Germack D.; Rosch, R.; Tanenbaum, D.M.; Jorgensen, M.; Seeland, M.; Barenklau, M.; Hermenau, M.; Voroshazi, E.; Lloyd, M.T.; Galagan, Y.; Zimmermann, B.; Wurfel, U.; Hosel, M.; Dam, H.F.; Gevorgyan, S.A.; Kudret, S.; Maes, W.; Lutsen, L.; Vanderzande, D.; Andriessen, R.; Teran-Escobar, G.; Lira-Cantu, M.; Rivaton, A.; Uzunoglu, G.Y.; Andreasen, B.; Madsen, M.V.; Norrman, K.; Hoppe, H.; Krebs, F.C.
System study on partial gasification combined cycle with CO{sub 2} recovery - article no. 051801
S partial gasification combined cycle with CO{sub 2} recovery is proposed in this paper. Partial gasification adopts cascade conversion of the composition of coal. Active composition of coal is simply gasified, while inactive composition, that is char, is burnt in a boiler. Oxy-fuel combustion of syngas produces only CO{sub 2} and H{sub 2}O, so the CO{sub 2} can be separated through cooling the working fluid. This decreases the amount of energy consumption to separate CO{sub 2} compared with conventional methods. The novel system integrates the above two key technologies by injecting steam from a steam turbine into the combustion chamber of a gas turbine to combine the Rankine cycle with the Brayton cycle. The thermal efficiency of this system will be higher based on the cascade utilization of energy level. Compared with the conventional integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC), the compressor of the gas turbine, heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) and gasifier are substituted for a pump, reheater, and partial gasifier, so the system is simplified. Furthermore, the novel system is investigated by means of energy-utilization diagram methodology and provides a simple analysis of their economic and environmental performance. As a result, the thermal efficiency of this system may be expected to be 45%, with CO{sub 2} recovery of 41.2%, which is 1.5-3.5% higher than that of an IGCC system. At the same time, the total investment cost of the new system is about 16% lower than that of an IGCC. The comparison between the partial gasification technology and the IGCC technology is based on the two representative cases to identify the specific feature of the proposed system.
Xu, Y.J.; Jin, H.G.; Lin, R.M.; Han, W. [Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing (China)
Design of optimal collimation for dedicated molecular breast imaging systems
Molecular breast imaging (MBI) is a functional imaging technique that uses specialized small field-of-view gamma cameras to detect the preferential uptake of a radiotracer in breast lesions. MBI has potential to be a useful adjunct method to screening mammography for the detection of occult breast cancer. However, a current limitation of MBI is the high radiation dose (a factor of 7-10 times that of screening mammography) associated with current technology. The purpose of this study was to optimize the gamma camera collimation with the aim of improving sensitivity while retaining adequate resolution for the detection of sub-10-mm lesions. Square-hole collimators with holes matched to the pixilated cadmium zinc telluride detector elements of the MBI system were designed. Data from MBI patient studies and parameters of existing dual-head MBI systems were used to guide the range of desired collimator resolutions, source-to-collimator distances, pixel sizes, and collimator materials that were examined. General equations describing collimator performance for a conventional gamma camera were used in the design process along with several important adjustments to account for the specialized imaging geometry of the MBI system. Both theoretical calculations and a Monte Carlo model were used to measure the geometric efficiency (or sensitivity) and resolution of each designed collimator. Results showed that through optimal collimation, collimator sensitivity could be improved by factors of 1.5-3.2, while maintaining a collimator resolution of either {<=}5 or {<=}7.5 mm at a distance of 3 cm from the collimator face. These gains in collimator sensitivity permit an inversely proportional drop in the required dose to perform MBI.
Weinmann, Amanda L.; Hruska, Carrie B.; O'Connor, Michael K. [Department of Radiology, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905 (United States)
Conceptual design and techno-economic assessment of integrated solar combined cycle system with DSG technology
Direct steam generation (DSG) in parabolic trough collectors causes an increase to competitiveness of solar thermal power plants (STPP) by substitution of oil with direct steam generation that results in lower investment and operating costs. In this study the integrated solar combined cycle system with DSG technology is introduced and techno-economic assessment of this plant is reported compared with two conventional cases. Three considered cases are: an integrated solar combined cycle system with DSG technology (ISCCS-DSG), a solar electric generating system (SEGS), and an integrated solar combined cycle system with HTF (heat transfer fluid) technology (ISCCS-HTF). This study shows that levelized energy cost (LEC) for the ISCCS-DSG is lower than the two other cases due to reducing O and M costs and also due to increasing the heat to electricity net efficiency of the power plant. Among the three STPPs, SEGS has the lowest CO{sub 2} emissions, but it will operate during daytime only. (author)
Nezammahalleh, H.; Farhadi, F.; Tanhaemami, M. [Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Department, Sharif University of Technology, No 593 Azadi Ave., Tehran (Iran)
Effect of adding flash tank on the evaporator's thermal load of the combined ejector-absorption cooling system
A modified combined absorption-ejector cooling system using aqua-ammonia (NH3-H2O) refrigerant has been investigated. Removable flash tank was added between the condenser and the evaporator. The modified cycle brings the advantage of improving in the ... Keywords: absorption system, combined absorption cooling system, ejectors, evaporators
Ranj Sirwan; Yusoff Ali; A. Zaharim; K. Sopian
Image replica detection system utilizing R-trees and linear discriminant analysis
This manuscript introduces a novel system for content-based identification of image replicas. The proposed approach utilizes image resemblance for deciding whether a test image has been replicated from a certain original or not. We formulate replica ... Keywords: Content-based monitoring, Copy image detection, Copyright protection, Fingerprinting, Linear discriminant analysis (LDA), Perceptual hashing, R-tree indexing, Replica detection, Robust hashing
Spiros Nikolopoulos; Stafanos Zafeiriou; Nikos Nikolaidis; Ioannis Pitas
An inlet air washer/chiller system for combined cycle planet repowering
A conditioning method to achieve increased output at any relative humidity condition is an air washer and absorption chiller arrangement. At elevated temperatures and low humidity, the air washer operates as an evaporative cooler without the chiller in operation. In this mode, the air washer will give similar results as a media type evaporative cooler at a fraction of the pressure loss. In the air washer plus chiller operating mode the chiller maintains cooling effectiveness of the air washer during periods of high relative humidity. This makes such a system very appropriate anywhere relative humidity is high. Many combined cycle plants utilize supplemental firing of the heat recovery steam generators to offset the loss of gas turbine power at high ambient temperatures. This paper shows that in contrast to supplementary firing, the combination air washer/chiller system can generate power more efficiently and at lower cost.
Sengupta, U.; Soroka, G. (Bechtel Power Corp., Gaithersburg, MD (USA))
Combined use of hard X-ray phase contrast imaging and X-ray fluorescence microscopy for sub-cellular metal quantification
Combined use of hard X-ray phase contrast imaging and X-ray fluorescence microscopy for subSurface Science Laboratory at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, Grenoble, France Abstract Hard X of the details of cells are undetectable in hard X-ray microscopy due to the weak absorption contrast between
Fluid Imaging of Enhanced Geothermal Systems through Joint 3D Geophysical
Imaging of Enhanced Geothermal Systems through Joint 3D Geophysical Imaging of Enhanced Geothermal Systems through Joint 3D Geophysical Inverse Modeling Geothermal Lab Call Project Jump to: navigation, search Last modified on July 22, 2011. Project Title Fluid Imaging of Enhanced Geothermal Systems through Joint 3D Geophysical Inverse Modeling Project Type / Topic 1 Laboratory Call for Submission of Applications for Research, Development and Analysis of Geothermal Technologies Project Type / Topic 2 Fluid Imaging Project Description EGS has been defined as enhanced reservoirs that have been created to extract economical amounts of heat from low permeability and/or porosity geothermal resources. Critical to the success of EGS is the successful manipulation of fluids in the subsurface to enhance permeability. Knowledge in the change in volume and location of fluids in the rocks and fractures (both natural and induced) will be needed to manage injection strategies such as the number and location of step out wells, in-fill wells and the ratio of injection to production wells. The key difficulty in manipulating fluids has been our inability to reliably predict their locations, movements and concentrations. We believe combining data from MEQ and electrical surveys has the potential to overcome these problems and can meet many of the above needs, economically. Induced seismicity is currently viewed as one of the essential methods for inferring the success of creating fracture permeability and fluid paths during large scale EGS injections. Fluids are obviously playing a critical role in inducing the seismicity, however, other effects such as thermal, geochemical and stress redistribution, etc. may also play a role.
Fish recognition based on the combination between robust feature selection, image segmentation and geometrical parameter techniques using Artificial Neural Network and Decision Tree
We presents in this paper a novel fish classification methodology based on a combination between robust feature selection, image segmentation and geometrical parameter techniques using Artificial Neural Network and Decision Tree. Unlike existing works for fish classification, which propose descriptors and do not analyze their individual impacts in the whole classification task and do not make the combination between the feature selection, image segmentation and geometrical parameter, we propose a general set of features extraction using robust feature selection, image segmentation and geometrical parameter and their correspondent weights that should be used as a priori information by the classifier. In this sense, instead of studying techniques for improving the classifiers structure itself, we consider it as a black box and focus our research in the determination of which input information must bring a robust fish discrimination.The main contribution of this paper is enhancement recognize and classify fishes...
Alsmadi, Mutasem Khalil Sari; Noah, Shahrul Azman; Almarashdah, Ibrahim
A system for combined three-dimensional morphological and molecular analysis of thick tissue specimens
We present a new system for simultaneous morphological and molecular analysis of thick tissue samples. The system is composed of a computer assisted microscope and a JAVA-based image display, analysis and visualization program that allows acquisition, annotation, meaningful storage, three-dimensional reconstruction and analysis of structures of interest in thick sectioned tissue specimens. We describe the system in detail and illustrate its use by imaging, reconstructing and analyzing two complete tissue blocks which were differently processed and stained. One block was obtained from a ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) lumpectomy specimen and stained alternatively with Hematoxilyn and Eosin (H&E), and with a counterstain and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to the ERB-B2 gene. The second block contained a fully sectioned mammary gland of a mouse, stained for Histology with H&E. We show how the system greatly reduces the amount of interaction required for the acquisition and analysis and is therefore suitable for studies that require morphologically driven, wide scale (e.g., whole gland) analysis of complex tissue samples or cultures.
Fernandez-Gonzalez, Rodrigo; Jones, Arthur; Garcia-Rodriguez, Enrique; Yuan Chen, Ping; Idica, Adam; Lockett, Stephen J.; Barcellos-Hoff, Mary Helen; Ortiz-de-Solorzano, Carlos
A low cost system for implementing FADCs in imaging atmospheric ^Cerenkov astronomy
A low cost system for implementing FADCs in imaging atmospheric ^Cerenkov astronomy M. D. Roberts. The success of early imaging cameras in ground based ^Cerenkov as- tronomy has led to demand for increased a ^Cerenkov imaging camera. A further bene t of this system is that it reduces the amount of data recorded
Adelaide, University of
Automated method and system for the alignment and correlation of images from two different modalities
A method and system for the computerized registration of radionuclide images with radiographic images, including generating image data from radiographic and radionuclide images of the thorax. Techniques include contouring the lung regions in each type of chest image, scaling and registration of the contours based on location of lung apices, and superimposition after appropriate shifting of the images. Specific applications are given for the automated registration of radionuclide lungs scans with chest radiographs. The method in the example given yields a system that spatially registers and correlates digitized chest radiographs with V/Q scans in order to correlate V/Q functional information with the greater structural detail of chest radiographs. Final output could be the computer-determined contours from each type of image superimposed on any of the original images, or superimposition of the radionuclide image data, which contains high activity, onto the radiographic chest image.
Giger, Maryellen L. (Elmhurst, IL); Chen, Chin-Tu (Lisle, IL); Armato, Samuel (Chicago, IL); Doi, Kunio (Willowbrook, IL)
Earth Occultation Imaging Applied to BATSE -- Application to a Combined BATSE-GBM Survey of the Hard X-Ray Sky
A combined BATSE-GBM hard X-ray catalog is presented based on Earth Occultation Imaging applied to a reanalysis of BATSE data. An imaging approach has been developed for the reanalysis of Earth Occultation analysis of BATSE data. The standard occultation analysis depends on a predetermined catalog of potential sources, so that a real source not present in the catalog may induce systematic errors when source counts associated with an uncatalogued source are incorrectly attributed to catalog sources. The goal of the imaging analysis is to find a complete set of hard X-ray sources, including sources not in the original BATSE occultation catalog. Using the imaging technique, we have identified 15 known sources and 17 unidentified sources and added them to the BATSE occultation catalog. The resulting expanded BATSE catalog of sources observed during 1991-2000 is compared to the ongoing GBM survey.
Zhang, Yuan; Case, Gary; Ling, James; Wheaton, William
Combining visibilities from the Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope and the Nancay Radio Heliograph: High dynamic range snapshot images of the solar corona at 327 MHz
We report first results from an ongoing program of combining visibilities from the Giant Meterwave Radio Telescope (GMRT) and the Nancay Radio Heliograph (NRH) to produce composite snapshot images of the sun at meter wavelengths. We describe the data processing, including a specific multi-scale CLEAN algorithm. We present results of a) simulations for two models of the sun at 327 MHz, with differing complexity b) observations of a complex noise storm on the sun at 327 MHz on Aug 27 2002. Our results illustrate the capacity of this method to produce high dynamic range snapshot images when the solar corona has structures with scales ranging from the image resolution of 49" to the size of the whole sun. We find that we cannot obtain reliable snapshot images for complex objects when the visibilities are sparsely sampled.
Claude Mercier; Prasad Subramanian; Alain Kerdraon; Monique Pick; S. Ananthakrishnan; P. Janardhan
heat and power; distributed generation; premium powerand operation of distributed generation, combined heat andcost combination of distributed generation technologies that
Norwood, Zack
Analysis and Evaluation of Learning Classifier Systems applied to Hyperspectral Image Classification
In this article, two learning classifier systems based on evolutionary techniques are described to classify remote sensing images. Usually, these images contain voluminous, complex, and sometimes erroneous and noisy data. The first approach implements ...
Arnaud Quirin; Jerzy Korczak; Martin V. Butz; David E. Goldberg
Applying combined pinch and exergy analysis to closed-cycle gas turbine system design
Pinch technology has developed into a powerful tool for thermodynamic analysis of chemical processes and associated utilities, resulting in significant energy savings. Conventional pinch analysis identifies the most economical energy consumption in terms of heat loads and provides practical design guidelines to achieve this. However, in analyzing systems involving heat and power, for example, steam and gas turbines, etc., pure heat load analysis is insufficient. Exergy analysis, on the other hand, provides a tool for heat and power analysis, although at times it does not provide clear practical design guideline. An appropriate combination of pinch and exergy analysis can provide practical methodology for the analysis of heat and power systems. The methodology has been successfully applied to refrigeration systems. This paper introduces the application of a combined pinch and exergy approach to commercial power plants with a demonstration example of a closed-cycle gas turbine (CCGT) system. Efficiency improvement of about 0.82 percent (50.2 to 51.02 percent) can be obtained by application of the new approach. More importantly, the approach can be used as an analysis and screening tool for the various design improvements and is generally applicable to any commercial power generation facility.
Dhole, V.R.; Zheng, J.P. [Univ. of Manchester (United Kingdom). Inst. of Science and Technology
A multi-spectral imaging system for geo-spatial applications
The integration of remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) in environmental applications has become increasingly common in recent years. Remotely sensed images are an important data source for environmental GIS applications and conversely ... Keywords: Imaging systems, computing applications, environmental systems, geographic information systems, prototyping
Carl Steidley; Ray Bachnak; R. Stephen Dannelly; Rahul Kulkarni; Chad Mayfield
Extractors manual for Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Data Base System: Major Plants Data Base
National concern over the depletion of conventional energy sources has prompted industry to evaluate coal gasification as an alternative source of energy. One approach being evaluated is gasifying coal in a gasifier and feeding the fuel gas to a combined-cycle power plant. This system is called an Integrated Gasification Combined-Cycle (IGCC) power plant. The US Department of Energy (DOE) is also encouraging the development of new technologies by sponsoring research and development (R and D) projects in IGCC. In order to make data generated from these projects available to government and private sector personnel, the IGCC Data System has been established. A technology-specific data system consists of data that are stored for that technology in each of the specialized data bases that make up the Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC) data system. The IGCC Data System consists of data stored in the Major Plants Data Base (MPDB) and the Test Data Data Base (TDDB). To capture the results of government-sponsored IGCC research programs, documents have been written for the MPDB and TDDB to specify the data that contractors need to report and the procedures for reporting them. The IGCC documents identify and define the data that need to be reported for IGCC projects so that the data entered into the TDDB and MPDB will meet the needs of the users of the IGCC Data System. This document addresses what information is needed and how it must be formatted so that it can be entered into the MPDB for IGCC. The data that are most relevant to potential IGCC Data System users have been divided into four categories: project tracking needs; economic/commercialization needs; critical performance needs; and modeling and R and D needs. 4 figs., 28 tabs.
Extractors manual for Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Data Base System: Test Data Data Base
National concern over the depletion of conventional energy sources has prompted industry to evaluate coal gasification as an alternative source of energy. One approach being evaluated is gasifying coal in a gasifier and feeding the fuel gas to a combined-cycle power plant. This system is called an Integrated Gasification Combined-Cycle (IGCC) power plant. The US Department of Energy (DOE) is also encouraging the development of new technologies by sponsoring research and development (R and D) projects in IGCC. In order to make data generated from these projects available to government and private sector personnel, the IGCC Data System has been established. A technology-specific data system consists of data that are stored for that technology in each of the specialized data bases that make up the Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC) data system. The IGCC Data System consists of data stored in the Major Plants Data Base (MPDB) and the Test Data Data Base (TDDB). To capture the results of government-sponsored IGCC research programs, documents have been written for the TDDB and MPDB to specify the data that contractors need to report and the procedures for reporting them. The IGCC documents identify and define the data that need to be reported for IGCC projects so that the data entered into the TDDB and MPDB will meet the needs of the users of the IGCC Data System. This document addresses what information is needed and how it must be formatted so that it can be entered into the TDDB for IGCC. The data that are most relevant to potential IGCC Data System users have been divided into four categories: project tracking needs; economic/commercialization needs; critical performance needs; and modeling and R and D needs.
Directional x-ray dark-field imaging of strongly ordered systems
Recently a novel grating based x-ray imaging approach called directional x-ray dark-field imaging was introduced. Directional x-ray dark-field imaging yields information about the local texture of structures smaller than the pixel size of the imaging system. In this work we extend the theoretical description and data processing schemes for directional dark-field imaging to strongly scattering systems, which could not be described previously. We develop a simple scattering model to account for these recent observations and subsequently demonstrate the model using experimental data. The experimental data includes directional dark-field images of polypropylene fibers and a human tooth slice.
Jensen, Torben Haugaard; Feidenhans'l, Robert [Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen (Denmark); Bech, Martin; Pfeiffer, Franz [Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich, 85747 Garching (Germany); Zanette, Irene; Weitkamp, Timm [European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 38043 Grenoble (France); David, Christian; Rutishauser, Simon [Paul Scherrer Institut, 5232 Villigen PSI (Switzerland); Deyhle, Hans [Biomaterials Science Center, University of Basel, 4031 Basel (Switzerland); Institute for Materials Science, School of Dental Medicine, University of Basel, 4031 Basel (Switzerland); Reznikova, Elena; Mohr, Juergen [Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Institute for Microstructure Technology, 76021 Karlsruhe (Germany)
FOR A COMBINED POWER AND BIOMASS HEATING SYSTEM FORT YUKON, ALASKA U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy GOLDEN FIELD OFFICE In Cooperation with USDA RURAL UTILITIES SERVICE DENALI COMMISSION APRIL 2013 ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ADEC Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation AFRPA Alaska Forest Resources Practices Act BFE Base Flood Elevation BMP best management practice BTU British Thermal Unit CATG Council of Athabascan Tribal Governments CEQ Council on Environmental Quality CFR Code of Federal Regulations CHP Combined Heat and Power CO carbon monoxide CO 2 carbon dioxide CWA Clean Water Act dBA A-weighted decibel DBH diameter at breast height DOE U.S. Department of Energy EA Environmental Assessment
Combined transmission distribution load flow model employing system reduction and voltage variable load representation
In the few decades since its introduction the digital computer has found widespread application within the electric power industry. One of the more fruitful areas for its utilization has been in the determination of the steady-state voltage conditions throughout the system. A power system naturally breaks down into two very distinct parts: transmission and distribution, and traditionally, the voltage problem has been separated the same way. In the transmission system it is referred to as a load flow problem, and in the distribution part it is called a voltage profile. In addition, the loads are often treated differently. Transmission loads are usually considered to be constant power, and the equations that result are therefore nonlinear. In the distribution portion the loads, though specified in terms of power, are sometimes handled as constant impedances, with linear equations. This work produced a new model wherein a mesh transmission system is combined with a radial distribution system and they are solved simultaneously. A system reduction technique is used to eliminate part of the transmission system from consideration, and thereby keep the problem at a manageable size. The solution algorithm incorporates a voltage variable load model which approximates the behavior of real loads more nearly than the common representations.
Enouen, P.W.
MERLIN/VLA imaging of the gravitational lens system B0218+357
Gravitational lenses offer the possibility of accurately determining the Hubble parameter (H_0) over cosmological distances, and B0218+357 is one of the most promising systems for an application of this technique. In particular this system has an accurately measured time delay (10.5+/-0.4 d; Biggs et al. 1999) and preliminary mass modelling has given a value for H_0 of 69 +13/-19 km/s/Mpc. The error on this estimate is now dominated by the uncertainty in the mass modelling. As this system contains an Einstein ring it should be possible to constrain the model better by imaging the ring at high resolution. To achieve this we have combined data from MERLIN and the VLA at a frequency of 5 GHz. In particular MERLIN has been used in multi-frequency mode in order to improve substantially the aperture coverage of the combined data set. The resulting map is the best that has been made of the ring and contains many new and interesting features. Efforts are currently underway to exploit the new data for lensing constraints using the LensClean algorithm (Kochanek & Narayan 1992).
A. D. Biggs; I. W. A. Browne; T. W. B. Muxlow; P. N. Wilkinson
Developing luminescent nanoprobes for labeling focal adhesion complex proteins and performing combined AFM-TIRF imaging of these conjugates
Recent progress in the field of semiconductor nanocrystals or Quantum Dots (QDs) has seen them find wider acceptance as a tool in biomedical research labs. As produced, high quality QDs synthesized by high temperature organometallic synthesis, are coated with a hydrophobic ligand. Therefore, they must be further processed to be soluble in water and made biocompatible. A process to coat the QDs with silk fibroin, a fibrous protein derived from the Bombyx mori silk worm, is described. Following the coating process, the characterization of size, optical properties and biocompatibility profile of these particle systems is described. In addition, conjugation of the silk fibroin coated QDs to different labeling proteins such as phalloidin and streptavidin is described. Proteins on the surface of ovarian cancer cells (HeyA8) and of cytoskeletal components participating in the formation of focal adhesion complex (FAC), such as F-actin in endothelial cells (HUVECS) were labeled using the bio-conjugated QDs. Various imaging techniques such as epi-fluorescence, TIRF and AFM were used to study the QD labeled cells. Overall the project has produced luminescent nanoprobes that enable the study of FAC formation dynamics and potentially a better in vivo fluorescent marker tool.
Nathwani, Bhavik Bharat
Experimental Study of the Floor Radiant Cooling System Combined with Displacement Ventilation
As a comfortable and energy-efficient air conditioning system, the application of floor radiant heating system is used increasingly greatly in the north of China. As a result, the feasibility of floor radiant cooling has gained more attention. To examine the thermodynamic performance of the floor radiant cooling system, we measured the operational conditions including the minimum floor surface temperature, the cooling capacity, and the indoor temperature field distribution under different outdoor temperatures in Beijing. Because the ground temperature changes with the mean temperature of the supplied and returned water and room temperature, the mean temperature of the supplied and retuned water was obtained. Finally, we analyzed the phenomenon of dewing and developed measures for preventing it. The dry air layer near the floor formed by a displacement ventilation system can effectively prevent dews on the surface of the floor in the wet and hot days in summer. In addition, for the sake of the displacement ventilation system, the heat transfer effect between floor and space is enhanced. Our analysis pointed out that floor radiant cooling system combined with displacement ventilation ensures good comfort and energy efficiency.
Ren, Y.; Li, D.; Zhang, Y.
An Effective Method of Automatic Image Mosaic for Remote Video Monitoring System
Current remote video monitoring system in substation can not fully play the role it is supposed to have in real-time active supervision. In order to improve the effect of remote video monitoring system, image mosaic technology is introduced firstly. ... Keywords: Image Mosaic, SIFT Algorithm, Remote Video Monitoring System
Zhao Zhenbing; Wang Rui; Zhang Tiefeng
High-resolution single photon planar and spect imaging of brain and neck employing a system of two co-registered opposed gamma imaging heads
A compact, mobile, dedicated SPECT brain imager that can be easily moved to the patient to provide in-situ imaging, especially when the patient cannot be moved to the Nuclear Medicine imaging center. As a result of the widespread availability of single photon labeled biomarkers, the SPECT brain imager can be used in many locations, including remote locations away from medical centers. The SPECT imager improves the detection of gamma emission from the patient's head and neck area with a large field of view. Two identical lightweight gamma imaging detector heads are mounted to a rotating gantry and precisely mechanically co-registered to each other at 180 degrees. A unique imaging algorithm combines the co-registered images from the detector heads and provides several SPECT tomographic reconstructions of the imaged object thereby improving the diagnostic quality especially in the case of imaging requiring higher spatial resolution and sensitivity at the same time.
Majewski, Stanislaw (Yorktown, VA); Proffitt, James (Newport News, VA)
Method and system to estimate variables in an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) plant
System and method to estimate variables in an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) plant are provided. The system includes a sensor suite to measure respective plant input and output variables. An extended Kalman filter (EKF) receives sensed plant input variables and includes a dynamic model to generate a plurality of plant state estimates and a covariance matrix for the state estimates. A preemptive-constraining processor is configured to preemptively constrain the state estimates and covariance matrix to be free of constraint violations. A measurement-correction processor may be configured to correct constrained state estimates and a constrained covariance matrix based on processing of sensed plant output variables. The measurement-correction processor is coupled to update the dynamic model with corrected state estimates and a corrected covariance matrix. The updated dynamic model may be configured to estimate values for at least one plant variable not originally sensed by the sensor suite.
Kumar, Aditya; Shi, Ruijie; Dokucu, Mustafa
Analysis of potential benefits of integrated-gasifier combined cycles for a utility system
Potential benefits of integrated gasifier combined cycle (IGCC) units were evaluated for a reference utility system by comparing long range expansion plans using IGCC units and gas turbine peakers with a plan using only state of the art steam turbine units and gas turbine peakers. Also evaluated was the importance of the benefits of individual IGCC unit characteristics, particularly unit efficiency, unit equivalent forced outage rate, and unit size. A range of IGCC units was analyzed, including cases achievable with state of the art gas turbines and cases assuming advanced gas turbine technology. All utility system expansion plans that used IGCC units showed substantial savings compared with the base expansion plan using the steam turbine units.
Choo, Y.K.
Model predictive control system and method for integrated gasification combined cycle power generation
Control system and method for controlling an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) plant are provided. The system may include a controller coupled to a dynamic model of the plant to process a prediction of plant performance and determine a control strategy for the IGCC plant over a time horizon subject to plant constraints. The control strategy may include control functionality to meet a tracking objective and control functionality to meet an optimization objective. The control strategy may be configured to prioritize the tracking objective over the optimization objective based on a coordinate transformation, such as an orthogonal or quasi-orthogonal projection. A plurality of plant control knobs may be set in accordance with the control strategy to generate a sequence of coordinated multivariable control inputs to meet the tracking objective and the optimization objective subject to the prioritization resulting from the coordinate transformation.
Kumar, Aditya; Shi, Ruijie; Kumar, Rajeeva; Dokucu, Mustafa
FISH: a practical system for fast interactive image search in huge databases
The problem of search and retrieval of images using relevance feedback has attracted tremendous attention in recent years from the research community. A real-world-deployable interactive image retrieval system must (1) be accurate, (2) require minimal ... Keywords: content extraction, dynamic indexing, image retrieval, long term learning, relevance feedback, scalability, short term learning
Pradhee Tandon; Piyush Nigam; Vikram Pudi; C V. Jawahar
An image tracking system for PTZ cameras Using OpenCV
In this paper, we implement a real-time surveillance system for image object tracking using PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras. For this, we use the mean shift tracking algorithm based on the color image distribution of detected object. Mean shift algorithm ... Keywords: PTZ camera, image object tracking, mean shift algorithm, openCV
Sang Gu Lee
Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Power Systemfor Distributed Concentrating Solar Combined Heat and Powerin parabolic trough solar power technology. Journal of Solar
Norwood, Zachary Mills
Treatment of municipal landfill leachate using a combined anaerobic digester and activated sludge system
The main objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of treating sanitary landfill leachate using a combined anaerobic and activated sludge system. A high-strength leachate from Shiraz municipal landfill site was treated using this system. A two-stage laboratory-scale anaerobic digester under mesophilic conditions and an activated sludge unit were used. Landfill leachate composition and characteristics varied considerably during 8 months experiment (COD concentrations of 48,552-62,150 mg/L). It was found that the system could reduce the COD of the leachate by 94% at a loading rate of 2.25 g COD/L/d and 93% at loading rate of 3.37 g COD/L/d. The anaerobic digester treatment was quite effective in removing Fe, Cu, Mn, and Ni. However, in the case of Zn, removal efficiency was about 50%. For the rest of the HMs the removal efficiencies were in the range 88.8-99.9%. Ammonia reduction did not occur in anaerobic digesters. Anaerobic reactors increased alkalinity about 3.2-4.8% in the 1st digester and 1.8-7.9% in the 2nd digester. In activated sludge unit, alkalinity and ammonia removal efficiency were 49-60% and 48.6-64.7%, respectively. Methane production rate was in the range of 0.02-0.04, 0.04-0.07, and 0.02-0.04 L/g COD{sub rem} for the 1st digester, the 2nd digester, and combination of both digesters, respectively; the methane content of the biogas varied between 60% and 63%.
Kheradmand, S. [Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Shiraz, Shiraz 7134851156 (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Karimi-Jashni, A., E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Shiraz, Shiraz 7134851156 (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Sartaj, M. [Department of Civil Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 841568311 (Iran, Islamic Republic of)
Many domestic oil fields are facing abandonment even though they still contain two-thirds of their original oil. A significant number of these fields can yield additional oil using advanced oil recovery (AOR) technologies. To maintain domestic oil production at current levels, AOR technologies are needed that are affordable and can be implemented by independent oil producers of the future. Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) technologies have become established as cost-effective solutions for declining oil production. MEOR technologies are affordable for independent producers operating stripper wells and can be used to extend the life of marginal fields. The demonstrated versatility of microorganisms can be used to design advanced microbial systems to treat multiple production problems in complex, heterogeneous reservoirs. The proposed research presents the concept of a combined microbial surfactant-polymer system for advanced oil recovery. The surfactant-polymer system utilizes bacteria that are capable of both biosurfactant production and metabolically-controlled biopolymer production. This novel technology combines complementary mechanisms to extend the life of marginal fields and is applicable to a large number of domestic reservoirs. The research project described in this report is performed jointly by, Bio-Engineering Inc., a woman owned small business, Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University, a Historically Black College and University. This report describes the results of our laboratory work to grow microbial cultures and the work done on recovery experiments on core rocks. We have selected two bacterial strains capable of producing both surfactant and polymers. We have conducted laboratory experiments to determine under what conditions surfactants and polymers can be produced from one single strain. We have conduct recovery experiments to determine the performance of these strains under different conditions. Our results do not show a significant influence of nutrient regime on alternate production of surfactants or polymers.
Jorge Gabitto; Maria Barrufet
Application of Compressed Sensing to 2-D Ultrasonic Propagation Imaging System data
The Ultrasonic Propagation Imaging (UPI) System is a unique, non-contact, laser-based ultrasonic excitation and measurement system developed for structural health monitoring applications. The UPI system imparts laser-induced ultrasonic excitations at user-defined locations on a structure of interest. The response of these excitations is then measured by piezoelectric transducers. By using appropriate data reconstruction techniques, a time-evolving image of the response can be generated. A representative measurement of a plate might contain 800x800 spatial data measurement locations and each measurement location might be sampled at 500 instances in time. The result is a total of 640,000 measurement locations and 320,000,000 unique measurements. This is clearly a very large set of data to collect, store in memory and process. The value of these ultrasonic response images for structural health monitoring applications makes tackling these challenges worthwhile. Recently compressed sensing has presented itself as a candidate solution for directly collecting relevant information from sparse, high-dimensional measurements. The main idea behind compressed sensing is that by directly collecting a relatively small number of coefficients it is possible to reconstruct the original measurement. The coefficients are obtained from linear combinations of (what would have been the original direct) measurements. Often compressed sensing research is simulated by generating compressed coefficients from conventionally collected measurements. The simulation approach is necessary because the direct collection of compressed coefficients often requires compressed sensing analog front-ends that are currently not commercially available. The ability of the UPI system to make measurements at user-defined locations presents a unique capability on which compressed measurement techniques may be directly applied. The application of compressed sensing techniques on this data holds the potential to reduce the number of required measurement locations, reduce the time to make measurements, reduce the memory required to store the measurements, and possibly reduce the computational burden to classify the measurements. This work considers the appropriate selection of the signal dictionary used for signal reconstruction, and performs an evaluation of compressed sensing technique's ability to reconstruct ultrasonic images using fewer measurements than would be needed using traditional Nyquist-limited data collection techniques.
Mascarenas, David D. [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Farrar, Charles R. [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Chong, See Yenn [Engineering Institute-Korea; Lee, J.R. [Engineering Institute-Korea; Park, Gyu Hae [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Flynn, Eric B. [Los Alamos National Laboratory
HEATMAP�CHP - The International Standard for Modeling Combined Heat and Power Systems
HEATMAP�CHP is a software tool that can provide a comprehensive simulation of proposed and existing combined heat and power (CHP) plant and system applications, The software model provides a fully integrated analysis of central power production plants that are linked to district energy applications using hot water or steam for heating and/or chilled water-cooling and/or refrigeration connected to a network of buildings or other residential commercial, institutional, or industrial facilities. The program will provide designers, planners. engineers, investors, utilities, and operators with extensive technical, economical, and air emission information about a specific CHP application. The software can also be a valuable tool for community, military, regional, or national planners in defining all aspects of developing, evaluating, and justifying a new CHP project or upgrading an existing thermal system for CHP. Program output may be used to evaluate existing system performance or model the effects of various potential alternative system strategies including upgrades, expansions or conversion of thermal fluids (e.g., steam to hot water). A major feature of the program is its capability to comprehensively analyze a central CHP plant interface application involving thermal storage for both heating and cooling systems in conjunction with various technical distribution parameters covering both the supply and return elements of an extensive piping distribution system. Important features of the software include: the capability to utilize a myriad of fuel and equipment options; determination of air emission impacts that can result from CHP or central energy plant implementation; and the evaluation of extensive economic scenarios including the influence of environmental taxes on a variety of fuel alternatives.
Bloomquist, R. G.; O'Brien, R. G.
The potential for control of carbon dioxide emissions from integrated gasification/combined-cycle systems
Initiatives to limit carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}) emissions have drawn considerable interest to integrated gasification/combined-cycle (IGCC) power generation, a process that reduces CO{sub 2} production through efficient fuel used is amenable to CO{sub 2} capture. This paper presents a comparison of energy systems that encompass fuel supply, an IGCC system, CO{sub 2} recovery using commercial technologies, CO{sub 2} transport by pipeline, and land-based sequestering in geological reservoirs. The intent is to evaluate the energy-efficiency impacts of controlling CO{sub 2} in such systems and to provide the CO{sub 2} budget, or an to equivalent CO{sub 2}`` budget, associated with each of the individual energy-cycle steps. The value used for the ``equivalent CO{sub 2}`` budget is 1 kg/kWh CO{sub 2}. The base case for the comparison is a 457-MW IGCC system that uses an air-blown Kellogg-Rust-Westinghouse (KRW) agglomerating fluidized-bed gasifier, Illinois No. 6 bituminous coal, and in-bed sulfur removal. Mining, preparation, and transportation of the coal and limestone result in a net system electric power production of 454 MW with a 0.835 kg/kwh CO{sub 2} release rate. For comparison, the gasifier output is taken through a water-gas shift to convert CO to CO{sub 2} and then processed in a glycol-based absorber unit to recover CO{sub 2} Prior to the combustion turbine. A 500-km pipeline then transports the CO{sub 2} for geological sequestering. The net electric power production for the system with CO{sub 2} recovery is 381 MW with a 0.156 kg/kwh CO{sub 2} release rate.
Livengood, C.D.; Doctor, R.D.; Molburg, J.C.; Thimmapuram, P.; Berry, G.F.
Neural-optimal control algorithm for real-time regulation of in-line storage in combined sewer systems
Attempts at implementing real-time control systems as a cost-effective means of minimizing the pollution impacts of untreated combined sewer overflows have largely been unsustained due to the complexity of the real-time control problem. Optimal real-time ... Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Combined sewers, Hydraulic sewer models, Neural networks, Optimal control, Real-time control, Urban stormwater management
Suseno Darsono; John W. Labadie
Proposing a decision-making model using analytical hierarchy process and fuzzy expert system for prioritizing industries in installation of combined heat and power systems
Restructuring electric power and increasing energy cost encourage large energy consumers to utilize combined heat and power (CHP) systems. In addition to these two factors, the gradual exclusion of subsidies is the third factor intensifying the utilization ... Keywords: Analytic hierarchy process, Combined heat and power, Decision making, Fuzzy expert system, Industry
Mehdi Piltan; Erfan Mehmanchi; S. F. Ghaderi
Combined diffuse optical tomography (DOT) and MRI system for cancer imaging in small animals
8, 2006 Technology in Cancer Research & Treatment, Volume 5,Technology in Cancer Research & Treatment, Volume 5, Number1161- Technology in Cancer Research & Treatment, Volume 5,
Gulsen, Gultekin; Birgul, Ozlem; Unlu, Mehmet Burcin; Shafiiha, Roshanak; Nalcioglu, Orhan
Guide to Combined Heat and Power Systems for Boiler Owners and Operators
Combined heat and power (CHP) or cogeneration is the sequential production of two forms of useful energy from a single fuel source. In most CHP applications, chemical energy in fuel is converted to both mechanical and thermal energy. The mechanical energy is generally used to generate electricity, while the thermal energy or heat is used to produce steam, hot water, or hot air. Depending on the application, CHP is referred to by various names including Building Cooling, Heating, and Power (BCHP); Cooling, Heating, and Power for Buildings (CHPB); Combined Cooling, Heating, and Power (CCHP); Integrated Energy Systems (IES), or Distributed Energy Resources (DER). The principal technical advantage of a CHP system is its ability to extract more useful energy from fuel compared to traditional energy systems such as conventional power plants that only generate electricity and industrial boiler systems that only produce steam or hot water for process applications. By using fuel energy for both power and heat production, CHP systems can be very energy efficient and have the potential to produce electricity below the price charged by the local power provider. Another important incentive for applying cogeneration technology is to reduce or eliminate dependency on the electrical grid. For some industrial processes, the consequences of losing power for even a short period of time are unacceptable. The primary objective of the guide is to present information needed to evaluate the viability of cogeneration for new or existing industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) boiler installations and to make informed CHP equipment selection decisions. Information presented is meant to help boiler owners and operators understand the potential benefits derived from implementing a CHP project and recognize opportunities for successful application of cogeneration technology. Topics covered in the guide follow: (1) an overview of cogeneration technology with discussions about benefits of applying cogeneration technology and barriers to implementing cogeneration technology; (2) applicable federal regulations and permitting issues; (3) descriptions of prime movers commonly used in CHP applications, including discussions about design characteristics, heat-recovery options and equipment, fuels and emissions, efficiency, maintenance, availability, and capital cost; (4) electrical generators and electrical interconnection equipment; (5) cooling and dehumidification equipment; (6) thermodynamic cycle options and configurations; (7) steps for evaluating the technical and economic feasibility of applying cogeneration technology; and (8) information sources.
Oland, CB
NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied in Medicine, Broad
NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied in Medicine, NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied in Medicine, Broad Spectrum of Industry NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied in Medicine, Broad Spectrum of Industry November 15, 2010 - 12:00pm Addthis Washington, DC - A groundbreaking Department of Energy-developed imaging system originally designed to help create cleaner fossil energy processes is finding successful applications in a wide range of medical, chemical processing, energy, and other industries. Developed by the Office of Fossil Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), the high-speed imaging technology known as "particle imaging velocimetry" (PIV) is being put to use by a research consortium of more than 25 major chemical and energy companies and may soon have other
Daily combined economic emission scheduling of hydrothermal systems with cascaded reservoirs using self organizing hierarchical particle swarm optimization technique
Daily optimum economic emission scheduling of hydrothermal systems is an important task in the operation of power systems. Many heuristic techniques such as differential evolution, and particle swarm optimization have been applied to solve this problem ... Keywords: Cascaded reservoirs, Combined economic emission scheduling (CEES), Hydrothermal systems, Self-organizing particle swarm optimization with time-varying acceleration coefficients (SOHPSO_TVAC)
K. K. Mandal; N. Chakraborty
of combined solar thermal absorption chiller systems, and noon solar thermal and absorption chiller adoption in 2020,used to supply an absorption chiller. In the CO 2 price run,
Recommendations for Applying Recommendations for Applying Water Heaters in Combination Space and Domestic Water Heating Systems A. Rudd, K. Ueno, D. Bergey, R. Osser Building Science Corporation June 2012 i This report received minimal editorial review at NREL. NOTICE This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States government. Neither the United States government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, subcontractors, or affiliated partners makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark,
the difference between the current densities calculated based on the potential and the magnetic field Resonance Current Density Imaging (MRCDI) has been proposed to image current density and magnetic flux the current density at dc and RF frequency (Scoot et al 1995). Using MRCDI, the magnetic flux density
Eyüboðlu, Murat
A PC-Based Interactive Imaging System Designed for INSAT Data Analysis and Monsoon Studies
A PC-based interactive image processing system has been developed for aiding the analysis of Indian Geosynchronous Satellite (INSAT) data for Asian monsoon studies. In view of its diminutive stature, the system has been given the name �MIDGET,� ...
Eric A. Smith; Kyung Whan Oh; Matthew R. Smith
A Windows-Based User Friendly System for Image Analysis with Partial Differential Equations
In this paper we present and briefly describe a Windows user-friendly system designed to assist with the analysis of images in general, and biomedical images in particular. The system, which is being made publicly available to the research community, ...
Do Hyun Chung; Guillermo Sapiro
Life cycle assessment of a biomass gasification combined-cycle power system
The potential environmental benefits from biomass power are numerous. However, biomass power may also have some negative effects on the environment. Although the environmental benefits and drawbacks of biomass power have been debated for some time, the total significance has not been assessed. This study serves to answer some of the questions most often raised in regard to biomass power: What are the net CO{sub 2} emissions? What is the energy balance of the integrated system? Which substances are emitted at the highest rates? What parts of the system are responsible for these emissions? To provide answers to these questions, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of a hypothetical biomass power plant located in the Midwest United States was performed. LCA is an analytical tool for quantifying the emissions, resource consumption, and energy use, collectively known as environmental stressors, that are associated with converting a raw material to a final product. Performed in conjunction with a t echnoeconomic feasibility study, the total economic and environmental benefits and drawbacks of a process can be quantified. This study complements a technoeconomic analysis of the same process, reported in Craig and Mann (1996) and updated here. The process studied is based on the concept of power Generation in a biomass integrated gasification combined cycle (BIGCC) plant. Broadly speaking, the overall system consists of biomass production, its transportation to the power plant, electricity generation, and any upstream processes required for system operation. The biomass is assumed to be supplied to the plant as wood chips from a biomass plantation, which would produce energy crops in a manner similar to the way food and fiber crops are produced today. Transportation of the biomass and other materials is by both rail and truck. The IGCC plant is sized at 113 MW, and integrates an indirectly-heated gasifier with an industrial gas turbine and steam cycle. 63 refs., 34 figs., 32 tabs.
Mann, M.K.; Spath, P.L.
The potential environmental benefits from biomass power are numerous. However, biomass power may also have some negative effects on the environment. Although the environmental benefits and drawbacks of biomass power have been debated for some time, the total significance has not been assessed. This study serves to answer some of the questions most often raised in regard to biomass power: What are the net CO{sub 2} emissions? What is the energy balance of the integrated system? Which substances are emitted at the highest rates? What parts of the system are responsible for these emissions? To provide answers to these questions, a life cycle assessment (LCA) of a hypothetical biomass power plant located in the Midwest United States was performed. LCA is an analytical tool for quantifying the emissions, resource consumption, and energy use, collectively known as environmental stressors, that are associated with converting a raw material to a final product. Performed in conjunction with a technoeconomic feasibility study, the total economic and environmental benefits and drawbacks of a process can be quantified. This study complements a technoeconomic analysis of the same process, reported in Craig and Mann (1996) and updated here. The process studied is based on the concept of power Generation in a biomass integrated gasification combined cycle (BIGCC) plant. Broadly speaking, the overall system consists of biomass production, its transportation to the power plant, electricity generation, and any upstream processes required for system operation. The biomass is assumed to be supplied to the plant as wood chips from a biomass plantation, which would produce energy crops in a manner similar to the way food and fiber crops are produced today. Transportation of the biomass and other materials is by both rail and truck. The IGCC plant is sized at 113 MW, and integrates an indirectly-heated gasifier with an industrial gas turbine and steam cycle. 63 refs., 34 figs., 32 tabs.
Transitional failure of carbon nanotube systems under a combination of tension and torsion
Transitional failure envelopes of single- and double-walled carbon nanotubes under combined tension-torsion are predicted using classical molecular dynamics simulations. The observations reveal that while the tensile failure load decreases with combined ...
Byeong-Woo Jeong
Many domestic oil fields are facing abandonment even though they still contain two-thirds of their original oil. A significant number of these fields can yield additional oil using advanced oil recovery (AOR) technologies. To maintain domestic oil production at current levels, AOR technologies are needed that are affordable and can be implemented by the independent oil producers of the future. Microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) technologies have become established as cost-effective solutions for declining oil production. MEOR technologies are affordable for independent producers operating stripper wells and can be used to extend the life of marginal fields. The demonstrated versatility of microorganisms can be used to design advanced microbial systems to treat multiple production problems in complex, heterogeneous reservoirs. The proposed research presents the concept of a combined microbial surfactant-polymer system for advanced oil recovery. The surfactant-polymer system utilizes bacteria that are capable of both biosurfactant production and metabolically-controlled biopolymer production. This novel technology combines complementary mechanisms to extend the life of marginal fields and is applicable to a large number of domestic reservoirs. The research project described in this report was performed by Bio-Engineering Inc., a woman owned small business, Texas A&M University and Prairie View A&M University, a Historically Black College and University. This report describes the results of our laboratory work to grow microbial cultures, the work done on recovery experiments on core rocks, and computer simulations. We have selected two bacterial strains capable of producing both surfactant and polymers. We have conducted laboratory experiments to determine under what conditions surfactants and polymers can be produced from one single strain. We have conduct recovery experiments to determine the performance of these strains under different conditions. Our results show a significant influence of nutrient regime on alternate production of surfactants or polymers for a Bacillus licheniformis strain, NIPER 1A. The main conclusion of this work is that NIPER 1A can produce both surfactant and polymer by nutrient regime manipulation. Our experiments proved that this property leads to improved oil recovery by increasing alternatively, oil mobility and conformance control.
Cooldown control system for a combined cycle electrical power generation plant
This patent describes a combined cycle electrical power plant including a steam turbine, a heat recovery steam generator for supplying steam to the steam turbine, a gas turbine for supplying heat to the heat recovery steam generator. The steam generator and gas turbine both produce electrical power under load, and the gas turbine has a control circuit determining the operation therof. A cooldown control system is described for the power generation plant. The system comprises: first means for detecting one of a steaming condition and a non-steaming condition in the heat recovery steam generator; second means responsive to the steaming condition and to a gas turbine STOP signal for reducing the load of the gas turbine toward a minimum load level; third means responsive to the non-steaming condition and to the minimum load level being reached for generating a STOP command and applying the STOP command to the control circuit of the gas turbine, thereby to indicate a sequence of steps to stop the gas turbine.
Martens, A.; Snow, B.E.
Combining compiler and operating system support for energy efficient i/o on embedded platforms
Mobile and embedded platforms have experienced dramatic advances in capabilities, largely due to the development of associated peripheral devices for storage and communication. The incorporation of these I/O devices has increased the overall power envelope of these platforms. In fact, system-level power consumption of mobile platforms is often dominated by peripheral devices. Since battery technologies alone have been unable to provide the lifetimes required by many platforms, in order to conserve energy, most devices provide the ability to transition into low power states during idle periods. The resulting energy savings are heavily dependent upon the lengths and number of idle periods experienced by a device. This paper presents an infrastructure designed to take advantage of device low power states by increasing the burstiness of device accesses and idle periods to provide a reduced power profile, and thereby an improvement in battery life. Our approach combines compiler-based source modifications with operating system support to implement a dynamic solution for enhanced energy consumption. We evaluate our infrastructure on an XScale-based embedded platform with a Linux implementation. 1.
Ripal Nathuji
Active and passive mode calibration of the Combined Thermal Epithermal Neutron (CTEN) system
The Combined Thermal/Epithermal Neutron (CTEN) non-destructive assay (NDA) system was designed to assay transuranic waste by employing an induced active neutron interrogation and/or a spontaneous passive neutron measurement. This is the second of two papers, and focuses on the passive mode, relating the net double neutron coincidence measurement to the plutonium mass via the calibration constant. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) calibration standards were used and the results verified with NIST-traceable verification standards. Performance demonstration program (PDP) 'empty' 208-L matrix drum was used for the calibration. The experimentally derived calibration constant was found to be 0.0735 {+-} 0.0059 g {sup 240}Pu effective per unit response. Using this calibration constant, the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) criteria was satisfied with five minute waste assays in the range from 3 to 177g Pu. CTEN also participated in the PDP Cycle 8A blind assay with organic sludge and metal matrices and passed the criteria for accuracy and precision in both assay modes. The WIPP and EPA audit was completed March 1, 2002 and full certification is awaiting the closeout of one finding during the audit. With the successful closeout of the audit, the CTEN system will have shown that it can provide very fast assays (five minutes or less) of waste in the range from the minimum detection limit (about 2 mg Pu) to 177 g Pu.
Veilleux, J. M. (John M.)
Desiccant-Based Combined Systems: Integrated Active Desiccant Rooftop Hybrid System Development and Testing Final Report- Phase 4
This report summarizes the results of a research and development (R&D) program to design and optimize an active desiccant-vapor compression hybrid rooftop system. The primary objective was to combine the strengths of both technologies to produce a compact, high-performing, energy-efficient system that could accommodate any percentage of outdoor air and deliver essentially any required combination of temperature and humidity, or sensible heat ratio (SHR). In doing so, such a product would address the significant challenges imposed on the performance capabilities of conventional packaged rooftop equipment by standards 62 and 90.1 of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. The body of work completed as part of this program built upon previous R&D efforts supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and summarized by the Phase 3b report ''Active Desiccant Dehumidification Module Integration with Rooftop Packaged HVAC Units'' (Fischer and Sand 2002), in addition to Fischer, Hallstrom, and Sand 2000; Fischer 2000; and Fischer and Sand 2004. All initial design objectives established for this development program were successfully achieved. The performance flexibility desired was accomplished by a down-sized active desiccant wheel that processes only a portion of the supply airflow, which is pre-conditioned by a novel vapor compression cycle. Variable-speed compressors are used to deliver the capacity control required by a system handling a high percentage of outdoor air. An integrated direct digital control system allows for control capabilities not generally offered by conventional packaged rooftop systems. A 3000-cfm prototype system was constructed and tested in the SEMCO engineering test laboratory in Columbia, MO, and was found to operate in an energy-efficient fashion relative to more conventional systems. Most important, the system offered the capability to independently control the supply air temperature and humidity content to provide individual sensible and latent loads required by an occupied space without over-cooling and reheating air. The product was developed using a housing construction similar to that of a conventional packaged rooftop unit. The resulting integrated active desiccant rooftop (IADR) is similar in size to a currently available conventional rooftop unit sized to provide an equivalent total cooling capacity. Unlike a conventional rooftop unit, the IADR can be operated as a dedicated outdoor air system processing 100% outdoor air, as well as a total conditioning system capable of handling any ratio of return air to outdoor air. As part of this R&D program, a detailed investigation compared the first cost and operating cost of the IADR with costs for a conventional packaged approach for an office building located in Jefferson City, MO. The results of this comparison suggest that the IADR approach, once commercialized, could be cost-competitive with existing technology--exhibiting a one-year to two-year payback period--while simultaneously offering improved humidity control, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency.
Fischer, J
3-dimensional imaging system using crystal diffraction lenses
A device for imaging a plurality of sources of x-ray and gamma-ray radiation is provided. Diffracting crystals are used for focussing the radiation and directing the radiation to a detector which is used for analyzing their addition to collect data as to the location of the source of radiation. A computer is used for converting the data to an image. The invention also provides for a method for imaging x-ray and gamma radiation by supplying a plurality of sources of radiation; focussing the radiation onto a detector; analyzing the focused radiation to collect data as to the type and location of the radiation; and producing an image using the data.
Smither, Robert K. (Hinsdale, IL)
Optical systems for synchrotron radiation: lecture 4. Soft x-ray imaging systems
The history and present techniques of soft x-ray imaging are reviewed briefly. The physics of x-ray imaging is described, including the temporal and spatial coherence of x-ray sources. Particular technologies described are: contact x-ray microscopy, zone plate imaging, scanned image zone plate microscopy, scanned image reflection microscopy, and soft x-ray holography and diffraction. (LEW)
Howells, M.R.
Virtually distortion-free imaging system for large field, high resolution lithography using electrons, ions or other particle beams
Virtually distortion free large field high resolution imaging is performed using an imaging system which contains large field distortion or field curvature. A reticle is imaged in one direction through the optical system to form an encoded mask. The encoded mask is then imaged back through the imaging system onto a wafer positioned at the reticle position. Particle beams, including electrons, ions and neutral particles, may be used as well as electromagnetic radiation.
Hawryluk, A.M.; Ceglio, N.M.
Combined cooling and purification system for nuclear reactor spent fuel pit, refueling cavity, and refueling water storage tank
The spent fuel pit of a pressured water reactor (PWR) nuclear power plant has sufficient coolant capacity that a safety rated cooling system is not required. A non-safety rated combined cooling and purification system with redundant branches selectively provides simultaneously cooling and purification for the spent fuel pit, the refueling cavity, and the refueling water storage tank, and transfers coolant from the refueling water storage tank to the refueling cavity without it passing through the reactor core. Skimmers on the suction piping of the combined cooling and purification system eliminate the need for separate skimmer circuits with dedicated pumps.
Corletti, Michael M. (New Kensington, PA); Lau, Louis K. (Monroeville, PA); Schulz, Terry L. (Murrysville Boro, PA)
The spent fuel pit of a pressured water reactor (PWR) nuclear power plant has sufficient coolant capacity that a safety rated cooling system is not required. A non-safety rated combined cooling and purification system with redundant branches selectively provides simultaneously cooling and purification for the spent fuel pit, the refueling cavity, and the refueling water storage tank, and transfers coolant from the refueling water storage tank to the refueling cavity without it passing through the reactor core. Skimmers on the suction piping of the combined cooling and purification system eliminate the need for separate skimmer circuits with dedicated pumps. 1 figures.
Corletti, M.M.; Lau, L.K.; Schulz, T.L.
Novel Power Cycle for Combined-Cycle Systems and Utility Power Plants
The description of a new power cycle, based on the use of a multicomponent working fluid, was published earlier. A thermodynamic analysis of this cycle has demonstrated its superiority over the currently used Rankine Cycle, and a distribution of losses in the subsystems of this cycle has been established. A new, improved variant of the cycle, which provides 10% efficiency improvement over the initial variant, has been developed. The new variant employs a cooling of the working fluid between turbine stages and a recuperation of the released heat for supplementation of the boiler heat supply. Analysis shows that with this new, improved cycle efficiencies of up to 52% for a combined-cycle system employing standard turbines, and of up to 55% when modern high-temperature gas turbines are employed, can be achieved. The same cycle can be utilized to retrofit existing direct-fired power plants, providing an efficiency of up to 42%. The possible implications off such a cycle implementation are briefly discussed. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) is now conducting a study of this cycle.
Kalina, A. L.
Combining Droop Curve Concepts with Control Systems for Wind Turbine Active Power Control: Preprint
Wind energy is becoming a larger portion of the global energy portfolio and wind penetration has increased dramatically in certain regions of the world. This increasing wind penetration has driven the need for wind turbines to provide active power control (APC) services to the local utility grid, as wind turbines do not intrinsically provide frequency regulation services that are common with traditional generators. It is common for large scale wind turbines to be decoupled from the utility grid via power electronics, which allows the turbine to synthesize APC commands via control of the generator torque and blade pitch commands. Consequently, the APC services provided by a wind turbine can be more flexible than those provided by conventional generators. This paper focuses on the development and implementation of both static and dynamic droop curves to measure grid frequency and output delta power reference signals to a novel power set point tracking control system. The combined droop curve and power tracking controller is simulated and comparisons are made between simulations using various droop curve parameters and stochastic wind conditions. The tradeoffs involved with aggressive response to frequency events are analyzed. At the turbine level, simulations are performed to analyze induced structural loads. At the grid level, simulations test a wind plant's response to a dip in grid frequency.
Buckspan, A.; Aho, J.; Pao, L.; Fleming, P.; Jeong, Y.
Utility-scale combined-cycle power systems with Kalina bottoming cycles
A new power-generation technology, often referred to as the Kalina cycle, is being developed as a direct replacement for the Rankine steam cycle. It can be applied to any thermal heat source, low or high temperature. Among several Kalina cycle variations, there is one that is particularly well suited as a bottoming cycle for utility combined-cycle applications. It is the subject of this paper. Using an ammonia/water mixture as the working fluid and a condensing system based on absorption-refrigeration principles, the Kalina bottoming cycle outperforms a triple-pressure steam cycle by 16%. Additionally, this version of the Kalina cycle is characterized by an intercooling feature between turbine stages, diametrically opposite to normal reheating practice in steam plants. Energy and mass balances are presented for a 200-MW(electric) Kalina bottoming cycle. Kalina cycle performance is compared to a triple-pressure steam plant. Energy and mass balances are presented as well for a 200-MW(electric) Kalina direct-fired cycle designed for utility purposes.
Kalina, A.I.
Beam emission imaging system for 2D plasma turbulence measurements
A two-dimensional analog to the beam emission spectroscopy (BES) diagnostic has been designed to acquire vorticity and plasma flow-field information by resolving the spatial and temporal intermittency of plasma turbulent structures. The beam emission imaging diagnostic measures collisionally induced neutral beam fluorescence to infer local plasma density variations. It consists of a high-throughput, interline-transfer CCD camera viewing, with narrow spectral bandwidth, a 10 cm high diagnostic neutral beam as it traverses the plasma. The camera is coupled to a gated image intensifier that provides for two images with exposure times up to a few ms to be separated by as little as 10 [mu]s. Sensitivity to density fluctuations of [ital [tilde n
Thorson, T.A.; Durst, R.D.; Fonck, R.J. (Department of Nuclear Engineering and Engineering Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin 53706 (United States))
solar power (CSP) troughs in the central valley of California (Pricesolar combined heat and power with desalination Figure 2.7: Comparison of desalination plants; price
?? The goal of this study is to assess the potential of the Stirling engine in alternative energy applications including combined cooling, heating, and power� (more)
Harrod, James C
Discrete magic angle turning system, apparatus, and process for in situ magnetic resonance spectroscopy and imaging
Described are a "Discrete Magic Angle Turning" (DMAT) system, devices, and processes that combine advantages of both magic angle turning (MAT) and magic angle hopping (MAH) suitable, e.g., for in situ magnetic resonance spectroscopy and/or imaging. In an exemplary system, device, and process, samples are rotated in a clockwise direction followed by an anticlockwise direction of exactly the same amount. Rotation proceeds through an angle that is typically greater than about 240 degrees but less than or equal to about 360 degrees at constant speed for a time applicable to the evolution dimension. Back and forth rotation can be synchronized and repeated with a special radio frequency (RF) pulse sequence to produce an isotropic-anisotropic shift 2D correlation spectrum. The design permits tubes to be inserted into the sample container without introducing plumbing interferences, further allowing control over such conditions as temperature, pressure, flow conditions, and feed compositions, thus permitting true in-situ investigations to be carried out.
Hu, Jian Zhi (Richland, WA); Sears, Jr., Jesse A. (Kennewick, WA); Hoyt, David W. (Richland, WA); Wind, Robert A. (Kennewick, WA)
Business Case for a Micro-Combined Heat and Power Fuel Cell System in Commercial Applications
Combined heat and power fuel cell systems (CHP-FCSs) provide consistent electrical power and hot water with greater efficiency and lower emissions than alternative sources. These systems can be used either as baseload, grid-connected, or as off-the-grid power sources. This report presents a business case for CHP-FCSs in the range of 5 to 50 kWe. Systems in this power range are considered micro-CHP-FCS. For this particular business case, commercial applications rather than residential or industrial are targeted. To understand the benefits of implementing a micro-CHP-FCS, the characteristics that determine their competitive advantage must first be identified. Locations with high electricity prices and low natural gas prices are ideal locations for micro-CHP-FCSs. Fortunately, these high spark spread locations are generally in the northeastern area of the United States and California where government incentives are already in place to offset the current high cost of the micro-CHP-FCSs. As a result of the inherently high efficiency of a fuel cell and their ability to use the waste heat that is generated as a CHP, they have higher efficiency. This results in lower fuel costs than comparable alternative small-scale power systems (e.g., microturbines and reciprocating engines). A variety of markets should consider micro-CHP-FCSs including those that require both heat and baseload electricity throughout the year. In addition, the reliable power of micro-CHP-FCSs could be beneficial to markets where electrical outages are especially frequent or costly. Greenhouse gas emission levels from micro-CHP-FCSs are 69 percent lower, and the human health costs are 99.9 percent lower, than those attributed to conventional coal-fired power plants. As a result, FCSs can allow a company to advertise as environmentally conscious and provide a bottom-line sales advantage. As a new technology in the early stages of adoption, micro-CHP-FCSs are currently more expensive than alternative technologies. As the technology gains a foothold in its target markets and demand increases, the costs will decline in response to improved manufacturing efficiencies, similar to trends seen with other technologies. Transparency Market Research forecasts suggest that the CHP-FCS market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of greater than 27 percent over the next 5 years. These production level increases, coupled with the expected low price of natural gas, indicate the economic payback period will move to less than 5 years over the course of the next 5 years. To better understand the benefits of micro-CHP-FCSs, The U.S. Department of Energy worked with ClearEdge Power to install fifteen 5-kWe fuel cells in the commercial markets of California and Oregon. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is evaluating these systems in terms of economics, operations, and their environmental impact in real-world applications. As expected, the economic analysis has indicated that the high capital cost of the micro-CHP-FCSs results in a longer payback period than typically is acceptable for all but early-adopter market segments. However, a payback period of less than 3 years may be expected as increased production brings system cost down, and CHP incentives are maintained or improved.
Brooks, Kriston P.; Makhmalbaf, Atefe; Anderson, David M.; Amaya, Jodi P.; Pilli, Siva Prasad; Srivastava, Viraj; Upton, Jaki F.
Towards the visualization of water supply system components with GPR images
We propose a methodological tool for examining the layout and revealing the concealed characteristics of urban water supply systems (WSS). For this purpose, we use underground images obtained with ground penetrating radar (GPR) as a method that does ... Keywords: Ground penetrating radar, Images processing and analysis, Pipe location, Signal processing
David Ayala-Cabrera; Manuel Herrera; Idel Montalvo; Rafael P�Rez-Garc�A
An evolutionary Michigan recurrent fuzzy system for nuclei classification in cytological images using nuclear chromatin distribution
Objective: The objective of this research is to carry out the classification of cellular nuclei in cytological pleural fluid images. The article focuses on the feature extraction and classification processes. The extracted feature is a spatial measurement ... Keywords: Cytological images, Genetic algorithm, Nuclei chromatin distribution, Nuclei classification, Pattern recognition, ROC analysis, Recurrent fuzzy system
S. Alay�n; J. I. Est�vez; J. Sigut; J. L. S�nchez; P. Toledo
High-contrast imaging instruments are now being equipped with integral field spectrographs (IFSs) to facilitate the detection and characterization of faint substellar companions. Algorithms currently envisioned to handle IFS data, such as the Locally Optimized Combination of Images (LOCI) algorithm, rely on aggressive point-spread function (PSF) subtraction, which is ideal for initially identifying companions but results in significantly biased photometry and spectroscopy owing to unwanted mixing with residual starlight. This spectrophotometric issue is further complicated by the fact that algorithmic color response is a function of the companion's spectrum, making it difficult to calibrate the effects of the reduction without using iterations involving a series of injected synthetic companions. In this paper, we introduce a new PSF calibration method, which we call 'damped LOCI', that seeks to alleviate these concerns. By modifying the cost function that determines the weighting coefficients used to construct PSF reference images, and also forcing those coefficients to be positive, it is possible to extract companion spectra with a precision that is set by calibration of the instrument response and transmission of the atmosphere, and not by post-processing. We demonstrate the utility of this approach using on-sky data obtained with the Project 1640 IFS at Palomar. Damped LOCI does not require any iterations on the underlying spectral type of the companion, nor does it rely on priors involving the chromatic and statistical properties of speckles. It is a general technique that can readily be applied to other current and planned instruments that employ IFSs.
Pueyo, Laurent [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Johns Hopkins University, 366 Bloomberg Center, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218 (United States); Crepp, Justin R.; Hinkley, Sasha; Hillenbrand, Lynne; Dekany, Richard; Bouchez, Antonin; Roberts, Jenny [California Institute of Technology, 1200 E. California Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91125 (United States); Vasisht, Gautam; Roberts, Lewis C.; Shao, Mike; Burruss, Rick [Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, CA 91109 (United States); Brenner, Douglas; Oppenheimer, Ben R.; Zimmerman, Neil [American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY 10024 (United States); Parry, Ian [Institute of Astronomy, University of Cambridge, Madingley Rd., Cambridge, CB3 0HA (United Kingdom); Beichman, Charles [NASA Exoplanet Science Institute, 770 S. Wilson Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91225 (United States); Soummer, Remi, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Space Telescope Science Institute, 3700 San Marin Drive, Baltimore, MD 21218 (United States)
CO2 gas/oil ratio prediction in a multi-component reservoir by combined seismic and electromagnetic imaging
partitioning of CO 2 between oil and gas phase. In additionC 0 are the grain, oil, gas and CO 2 densities respectivelyPower Systems; Office of Oil, Gas and Shale Technologies,
Hoversten, G.M.; Gritto, Roland; Washbourne, John; Daley, Tom
Use of Time-Aggregated Data in Economic Screening Analyses of Combined Heat and Power Systems
Combined heat and power (CHP) projects (also known as cogeneration projects) usually undergo a series of assessments and viability checks before any commitment is made. A screening analysis, with electrical and thermal loads characterized on an annual basis, may be performed initially to quickly determine the economic viability of the proposed project. Screening analyses using time-aggregated data do not reflect several critical cost influences, however. Seasonal and diurnal variations in electrical and thermal loads, as well as time-of-use utility pricing structures, can have a dramatic impact on the economics. A more accurate economic assessment requires additional detailed data on electrical and thermal demand (e.g., hourly load data), which may not be readily available for the specific facility under study. Recent developments in CHP evaluation tools, however, can generate the needed hourly data through the use of historical data libraries and building simulation. This article utilizes model-generated hourly load data for four potential CHP applications and compares the calculated cost savings of a CHP system when evaluated on a time-aggregated (i.e., annual) basis to the savings when evaluated on an hour-by-hour basis. It is observed that the simple, aggregated analysis forecasts much greater savings (i.e., greater economic viability) than the more detailed hourly analysis. The findings confirm that the simpler tool produces results with a much more optimistic outlook, which, if taken by itself, might lead to erroneous project decisions. The more rigorous approach, being more reflective of actual requirements and conditions, presents a more accurate economic comparison of the alternatives, which, in turn, leads to better decision risk management.
Hudson II, Carl Randy [ORNL
Uncertainty analysis of integrated gasification combined cycle systems based on Frame 7H versus 7F gas turbines
Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) technology is a promising alternative for clean generation of power and coproduction of chemicals from coal and other feedstocks. Advanced concepts for IGCC systems that incorporate state-of-the-art gas turbine systems, however, are not commercially demonstrated. Therefore, there is uncertainty regarding the future commercial-scale performance, emissions, and cost of such technologies. The Frame 7F gas turbine represents current state-of-practice, whereas the Frame 7H is the most recently introduced advanced commercial gas turbine. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risks and potential payoffs of IGCC technology based on different gas turbine combined cycle designs. Models of entrained-flow gasifier-based IGCC systems with Frame 7F (IGCC-7F) and 7H gas turbine combined cycles (IGCC-7H) were developed in ASPEN Plus. An uncertainty analysis was conducted. Gasifier carbon conversion and project cost uncertainty are identified as the most important uncertain inputs with respect to system performance and cost. The uncertainties in the difference of the efficiencies and costs for the two systems are characterized. Despite uncertainty, the IGCC-7H system is robustly preferred to the IGCC-7F system. Advances in gas turbine design will improve the performance, emissions, and cost of IGCC systems. The implications of this study for decision-making regarding technology selection, research planning, and plant operation are discussed. 38 refs., 11 figs., 5 tabs.
Yunhua Zhu; H. Christopher Frey [Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA (United States)
Development of a New Underwater Bathymetric Laser Imaging System: L-Bath
The design, construction, and performance of a new high-resolution underwater bathymetric prototype system (L-Bath) with extended imaging capability is presented. The design offers simultaneous reflectance and depth information on a pixel-by-...
Karl D. Moore; Jules S. Jaffe; Benjamin L. Ochoa
A quantitative evaluation of fixed-pattern noise reduction methods in imaging systems
Fixed-pattern noise is a common feature in several uncalibrated imaging systems, and it typically appears as striping and grid-like nonuniformity artifacts in hyperspectral and infrared cameras. In this work, we present a quantitative and comparative ...
Pablo Meza; C�sar San Martin; Esteban Vera; Sergio Torres
A Submersible Particle Image Velocimetry System for Turbulence Measurements in the Bottom Boundary Layer
This paper introduces an oceanic particle image velocimetry (PIV) system that has been under development at The Johns Hopkins University over the past three years. PIV maps two components of the instantaneous velocity distribution within a ...
Luca Bertuccioli; Gary I. Roth; Joseph Katz; Thomas R. Osborn
Numerical Analysis of JNES Seismic Tests on Degraded Combined Piping System
Nuclear power plant safety under seismic conditions is an important consideration. The piping systems may have some defects caused by fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, etc., in aged plants. These cracks may not only affect the seismic response but also grow and break through causing loss of coolant. Therefore, an evaluation method needs to be developed to predict crack growth behavior under seismic excitation. This paper describes efforts conducted to analyze and better understand a series of degraded pipe tests under seismic loading that was conducted by Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organization (JNES). A special 'cracked-pipe element' (CPE) concept, where the element represented the global moment-rotation response due to the crack, was developed. This approach was developed to significantly simplify the dynamic finite element analysis in fracture mechanics fields. In this paper, model validation was conducted by comparisons with a series of pipe tests with circumferential through-wall and surface cracks under different excitation conditions. These analyses showed that reasonably accurate predictions could be made using the abaqus connector element to model the complete transition of a circumferential surface crack to a through-wall crack under cyclic dynamic loading. The JNES primary loop recirculation piping test was analyzed in detail. This combined-component test had three crack locations and multiple applied simulated seismic block loadings. Comparisons were also made between the ABAQUS finite element (FE) analyses results to the measured displacements in the experiment. Good agreement was obtained, and it was confirmed that the simplified modeling is applicable to a seismic analysis for a cracked pipe on the basis of fracture mechanics. Pipe system leakage did occur in the JNES tests. The analytical predictions using the CPE approach did not predict leakage, suggesting that cyclic ductile tearing with large-scale plasticity was not the crack growth mode for the acceleration excitations considered here. Hence, the leakage was caused by low-cycle fatigue with small-scale yielding. The procedure used to make predictions of low-cycle fatigue crack growth with small-scale yielding was based on the Dowling {Delta}J procedure, which is an extension of linear-elastic fatigue crack growth methodology into the nonlinear plasticity region. The predicted moments from the CPE approach were used using a cycle-by-cycle crack growth procedure. The predictions compare quite well with the experimental measurements.
Zhang T.; Nie J.; Brust, F.; Wilkowski, G.; Hofmayer, C.; Ali, S.; Shim, D-J.
Method and apparatus for animal positioning in imaging systems
An apparatus for imaging an animal includes a first mounting surface, a bed sized to support the animal and releasably secured to or integral with the first mounting surface. The apparatus also includes a plurality of straps, each having a first end in a fixed position relative to the bed and a second end for tightening around a limb of the animal. A method for in-vivo imaging of an animal includes providing an animal that has limbs, providing a first mounting surface, and providing a bed removably secured to or integral with the mounting surface and sized to support the animal as well as being coupled to a plurality of straps. The method also includes placing the animal on the bed between the plurality of straps and tightening at least two of the plurality of straps around at least two of the limbs such that the animal is substantially secured in place relative to the bed.
Hadjioannou, Arion-Xenofon; Stout, David B.; Silverman, Robert W.
Uterine Artery Embolization Combined with Local Methotrexate and Systemic Methotrexate for Treatment of Cesarean Scar Pregnancy with Different Ultrasonographic Pattern
Purpose: This study was designed to compare the effectiveness of systemic methotrexate (MTX) with uterine artery embolization (UAE) combined with local MTX for the treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) with different ultrasonographic pattern, and to indicate the preferable therapy in CSP patients. Methods: The results of 21 CSP cases were reviewed. All subjects were initially administrated with systemic MTX (50 mg/m{sup 2} body surface area). UAE combined with local MTX was added to the patients who had failed systemic MTX. The transvaginal ultrasonography data were retrospectively assessed, and two different ultrasonographic patterns were found: surface implantation and deep implantation of amniotic sac. The management and its effectiveness for patients with the two ultrasonographic patterns were studied retrospectively. Ultrasound scan and serum {beta}-hCG were monitored during follow-up. Data were analyzed with the Student's t test. Results: Nine patients were successfully treated with systemic MTX. The remaining 12 cases were successfully treated with additional UAE combined with local MTX. According to the classification by Vial et al. of CSP on ultrasonography, most surface implanted CSPs (8/11, 72.7%) could be successfully treated with systemic MTX, whereas most deeply implanted CSPs (9/10, 90%) had failed systemic MTX but still could be successfully treated with additional UAE combined with local MTX. All patients recovered without severe side effects. Most patients with a future desire for reproduction achieved subsequent pregnancy. Conclusions: For CSP patients suitable for nonsurgical treatment, UAE combined with local MTX would be the superior option compared with systemic MTX in the cases with deep implantation of amniotic sac.
Lian Fan [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (China); Wang Yu, E-mail: email@example.com; Chen Wei; Li Jiaping [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Interventional Radiology (China); Zhan Zhongping; Ye Yujin [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (China); Zhu, Yunxiao [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Ultrasonography (China); Huang Jia [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics (China); Xu Hanshi; Yang Xiuyan; Liang Liuqin [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (China); Yang Jianyong [The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Interventional Radiology (China)
Water and Energy Budgets of a Florida Mesoscale Convective System: A Combined Observational and Modeling Study
Mesoscale water and energy budgets are diagnosed for a squall line during the Convection and Precipitation Electrification Experiment and combined with the results of the two-dimensional Goddard Cumulus Ensemble Model. The fine temporal and ...
J. Halverson; M. Garstang; J. Scala; W-K. Tao
Integration of Ion Transport Membrane Technology with Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Power Generation Systems
EPRI, in conjunction with Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. (AP), has reviewed the integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) process, whereby coal (or some other hydrocarbon such as petroleum coke or heavy oil) is broken down into its constituent volatile and nonvolatile components through the process of oxidative-pyrolysis. Combustible synthetic gas created in the process can be used in a traditional combined cycle. IGCC is particularly appealing for its potentially higher efficiencies compared ...
Evaluation of a Combined Cyclone & Gas Filtration System for Particulate Removal in the Gasification Process
The Wabash gasification facility, owned and operated by sgSolutions LLC, is one of the largest single train solid fuel gasification facilities in the world capable of transforming 2,000 tons per day of petroleum coke or 2,600 tons per day of bituminous coal into synthetic gas for electrical power generation. The Wabash plant utilizes Phillips66 proprietary E-Gas� Gasification Process to convert solid fuels such as petroleum coke or coal into synthetic gas that is fed to a combined cycle combustion turbine power generation facility. During plant startup in 1995, reliability issues were realized in the gas filtration portion of the gasification process. To address these issues, a slipstream test unit was constructed at the Wabash facility to test various filter designs, materials and process conditions for potential reliability improvement. The char filtration slipstream unit provided a way of testing new materials, maintenance procedures, and process changes without the risk of stopping commercial production in the facility. It also greatly reduced maintenance expenditures associated with full scale testing in the commercial plant. This char filtration slipstream unit was installed with assistance from the United States Department of Energy (built under DOE Contract No. DE-FC26-97FT34158) and began initial testing in November of 1997. It has proven to be extremely beneficial in the advancement of the E-Gas� char removal technology by accurately predicting filter behavior and potential failure mechanisms that would occur in the commercial process. After completing four (4) years of testing various filter types and configurations on numerous gasification feed stocks, a decision was made to investigate the economic and reliability effects of using a particulate removal gas cyclone upstream of the current gas filtration unit. A paper study had indicated that there was a real potential to lower both installed capital and operating costs by implementing a char cyclonefiltration hybrid unit in the E-Gas� gasification process. These reductions would help to keep the E-Gas� technology competitive among other coal-fired power generation technologies. The Wabash combined cyclone and gas filtration slipstream test program was developed to provide design information, equipment specification and process control parameters of a hybrid cyclone and candle filter particulate removal system in the E-Gas� gasification process that would provide the optimum performance and reliability for future commercial use. The test program objectives were as follows: 1. Evaluate the use of various cyclone materials of construction. 2. Establish the optimal cyclone efficiency that provides stable long term gas filter operation. 3. Determine the particle size distribution of the char separated by both the cyclone and candle filters. This will provide insight into cyclone efficiency and potential future plant design. 4. Determine the optimum filter media size requirements for the cyclone-filtration hybrid unit. 5. Determine the appropriate char transfer rates for both the cyclone and filtration portions of the hybrid unit. 6. Develop operating procedures for the cyclone-filtration hybrid unit. 7. Compare the installed capital cost of a scaled-up commercial cyclone-filtration hybrid unit to the current gas filtration design without a cyclone unit, such as currently exists at the Wabash facility.
Rizzo, Jeffrey
Evaluation of the AEA Technology Engineering Services AIS Rotor Bore Ultrasonic Imaging System
Reliable and repeatable boresonic inspections of turbine rotors and generator fields are critical for accurately predicting the remaining life of those components. EPRI's boresonic system evaluation program provides utilities with insight into the capability of commercial boresonic system performance. This report features an evaluation of the Automated Inspection System (AIS) Rotor Bore Ultrasonic Imaging System, a boresonic system owned and operated by AEA Technology Engineering Services.
Generation Maintenance Applications Center: Combined-Cycle Combustion Turbine Lube Oil System Maintenance Guide
The combustion turbine lubrication system provides clean oil to the turbine-generator bearings, the generator seal oil system, the trip oil system, and the hydraulic system at the required pressures and temperatures. It is an essential system that reduces friction between rubbing surfaces such as bearings, ...
1?10 kW Stationary Combined Heat and Power Systems Status and Technical Potential: Independent Review
This independent review examines the status and technical potential of 1-10 kW stationary combined heat and power fuel cell systems and analyzes the achievability of the DOE cost, efficiency, and durability targets for 2012, 2015, and 2020.
Maru, H. C.; Singhal, S. C.; Stone, C.; Wheeler, D.
Autonomous acquisition simulator system: a testbed for tactical image processing algorithm development
The autonomous acquisition simulator system (AAS) is a modular real time image processing system that may be used as a tool for the evaluation of artificial intelligence and image processing algorithms for application to tactical systems. The operational and system requirements for a testbed that would function as such a simulation device are summarised. The architecture of both the hardware and software designs for the AAS are described in the context of resulting data structures and computational requirements for implementing these algorithms in real time. Also included is an approach for providing a compiler level language as a highly desirable feature to facilitate the development of software for implementing new algorithms.
Mack, H.; Mathe, A.W.; Chall, L.E.; Politopoulos, A.S.; Berchtold, J.R.; Jones, T.
NETL: News Release - NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied
15, 2010 15, 2010 NETL's High-Speed Imaging System Successfully Applied in Medicine, Broad Spectrum of Industry Washington, D.C. - A groundbreaking Department of Energy-developed imaging system originally designed to help create cleaner fossil energy processes is finding successful applications in a wide range of medical, chemical processing, energy, and other industries. MORE INFO Learn more about the high-speed PIV system More information about the application of high-speed PIV for coal gasification Developed by the Office of Fossil Energy's National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), the high-speed imaging technology known as "particle imaging velocimetry" (PIV) is being put to use by a research consortium of more than 25 major chemical and energy companies and may soon have other
solar-electric system (typical for thin-film panels currently) plus a 58% efficient solar-thermal system (flat-plate efficiency
a transformative technology. Solar PV, wind, geothermal, andon the whole. Thus, solar CHP and PV systems can be comparedevaluate whether solar CHP and PV systems perform similarly
Comparison of the leading candidate combinations of blanket materials, thermodynamic cycles, and tritium systems for full scale fusion power plants
The many possible combinations of blanket materials, tritium generation and recovery systems, and power conversion systems were surveyed and a comprehensive set of designs were generated by using a common set of ground rules that include all of the boundary conditions that could be envisioned for a full- scale commercial fusion power plant. Particular attention was given to the effects of blanket temperature on power plant cycle efficiency and economics, the interdependence of the thermodynamic cycle and the tritium recovery system, and to thermal and pressure stresses in the blanket structure. The results indicate that, of the wide variety of systems that have been considered, the most promising employs lithium recirculated in a closed loop within a niobium blanket structure and cooled with boiling potassium or cesium. This approach gives the simplest and lowest cost tritium recovery system, the lowest pressure and thermal stresses, the simplest structure with the lowest probability of a leak, the greatest resistance to damage from a plasma energy dump, and the lowest rate of plasma contamination by either outgassing or sputtering. The only other blanket materials combination that appears fairly likely to give a satisfactory tritium generation and recovery system is a lithium-beryllium fluoride-Incoloy blanket, and even this system involves major uncertainties in the effectiveness, size, and cost of the tritium recovery system. Further, the Li$sub 2$BeF$sub 4$ blanket system has the disadvantage that the world reserves of beryllium are too limited to support a full-blown fusion reactor economy, its poor thermal conductivity leads to cooling difficulties and a requirement for a complex structure with intricate cooling passages, and this inherently leads to an expansive blanket with a relatively high probability of leaks. The other blanket materials combinations yield even less attractive systems. (auth)
Fraas, A.P.
PicToon: a personalized image-based cartoon system
In this paper, we present PicToon, a cartoon system which can generate a personalized cartoon face from an input Picture. PicToon is easy to use and requires little user interaction. Our system consists of three major components: ... Keywords: applications, example-based learning, lip-syncing, multi-modal interaction and integration, non-parametric sampling, user interfaces
Hong Chen; Nan-Ning Zheng; Lin Liang; Yan Li; Ying-Qing Xu; Heung-Yeung Shum
The Added Economic and Environmental Value of Solar Thermal Systems in Microgrids with CombinedHeat and Power
The addition of solar thermal and heat storage systems can improve the economic, as well as environmental attraction of micro-generation systems, e.g. fuel cells with or without combined heat and power (CHP) and contribute to enhanced CO2 reduction. However, the interactions between solar thermal collection and storage systems and CHP systems can be complex, depending on the tariff structure, load profile, etc. In order to examine the impact of solar thermal and heat storage on CO2 emissions and annual energy costs, a microgrid's distributed energy resources (DER) adoption problem is formulated as a mixed-integer linear program. The objective is minimization of annual energy costs. This paper focuses on analysis of the optimal interaction of solar thermal systems, which can be used for domestic hot water, space heating and/or cooling, and micro-CHP systems in the California service territory of San Diego Gas and Electric (SDG&E). Contrary to typical expectations, our results indicate that despite the high solar radiation in southern California, fossil based CHP units are dominant, even with forecast 2020 technology and costs. A CO2 pricing scheme would be needed to incent installation of combined solar thermal absorption chiller systems, and no heat storage systems are adopted. This research also shows that photovoltaic (PV) arrays are favored by CO2 pricing more than solar thermal adoption.
Marnay, Chris; Stadler, Michael; Cardoso, Goncalo; Megel, Olivier; Lai, Judy; Siddiqui, Afzal
A Design Tool for the Optimization of Stand-alone Electric Power Systems with Combined Hydrogen-Battery Energy Storage
A simulation design tool was developed to investigate the design and performance of stand-alone distributed renewable electric power systems. The temporal mismatch between energy production and use results in the inclusion of energy storage devices that can become an important and expensive component of these systems. To properly size all system components, a time response model with one hour resolution was developed. Specifically, the model developed here simulates one year of grid operation with the constraint that it be "stand-alone" - that is, that there be no net change in stored energy. With two storage components, hydrogen and batteries, the system size was calculated as a function of the battery storage size, and the total system was costed with battery size as the parameter. Calculations were performed for the specific case of residential use in Yuma, Arizona. In addition to determining the size and cost of this grid, it was found that the system costs using a combination of h...
Steven Vosen Combustion; S. R. Vosen; Microfiche Copy Ao; Steven R. Vosen
Data system design for a hyperspectral imaging mission concept
Global ecosystem observations are important for Earth-system studies. The National Research Council's report entitled Earth Science and Applications from Space is currently guiding NASA's Earth science missions. It calls ...
Graham, Lindley C.
Microscopy imaging system and method employing stimulated raman spectroscopy as a contrast mechanism
A microscopy imaging system includes a first light source for providing a first train of pulses at a first center optical frequency .omega..sub.1, a second light source for providing a second train of pulses at a second center optical frequency .omega..sub.2, a modulator system, an optical detector, and a processor. The modulator system is for modulating a beam property of the second train of pulses at a modulation frequency f of at least 100 kHz. The optical detector is for detecting an integrated intensity of substantially all optical frequency components of the first train of pulses from the common focal volume by blocking the second train of pulses being modulated. The processor is for detecting, a modulation at the modulation frequency f, of the integrated intensity of the optical frequency components of the first train of pulses to provide a pixel of an image for the microscopy imaging system.
Xie, Xiaoliang Sunney (Lexington, MA); Freudiger, Christian (Boston, MA); Min, Wei (Cambridge, MA)
Field Test of a Microturbine-based Combined Heat and Power System
Electric utility engineers are familiar with utility-grade protection relays. Most, if not all, inverter-based Distributed Energy Resource (DER) systems, such as microturbines systems, fuel cells, and photovoltaic arrays, do not have discrete generator/feeder protection relays. Inverter-based DER systems are designed with their own digitally emulated protection functions, such as overcurrent, undervoltage, and under-frequency, into the inverter controls. Electric utilities are uneasy with these systems. ...
Methods And Systems For Using Reference Images In Acoustic Image Processing
A method and system of examining tissue are provided in which a field, including at least a portion of the tissue and one or more registration fiducials, is insonified. Scattered acoustic information, including both transmitted and reflected waves, is received from the field. A representation of the field, including both the tissue and the registration fiducials, is then derived from the received acoustic radiation.
Moore, Thomas L. (Livermore, CA); Barter, Robert Henry (Oakland, CA)
Thermo economic comparison of conventional micro combined heat and power systems with
heat and power systems (CHP) on this scale is called micro CHP (mCHP). First, the energy consumption-family household. The SOFC-mCHP system provides electricity as well as hot water for use and space heating heating located in larger cities. Secondly, there are CHP systems used in a decentralized form
Liso, Vincenzo
A Combined Adaptive Law for Fuzzy Iterative Learning Control of Nonlinear Systems With Varying Control Tasks
To deal with the iterative control of uncertain nonlinear systems with varying control tasks, nonzero initial resetting state errors, and nonrepeatable mismatched input disturbance, a new adaptive fuzzy iterative learning controller is proposed in this ... Keywords: Adaptive control, fuzzy system, iterative learning control (ILC), nonlinear systems
Chiang-Ju Chien
Western Area Power Administration combined power system financial statements, 30 September 1995 and 1994
The attached report presents the results of the independent certified public accountant`s audit of the Department of Energy`s Western Area Power Administration`s (Western) combined financial statements as of September 30, 1995. The auditors have expressed an unqualified opinion on Western`s 1995 statements. Their reports on Western`s internal control structure and on compliance with laws and regulations are also provided.
Combined Heat and Power System Implementation � A Management Decision Guide: Industrial Center of Excellence Application Guide
This guide discusses how a well-balanced Combined Heat and Power (CHP) project is the most efficient power generation resource available and suggests the open exploration of collaboration and sharing of benefits between utilities and their key customers who have coincident electric and thermal loads for solid CHP project development. The overriding objective of the guide is to present a balanced and effective approach for potential CHP project developers, owners, and participants to make well-informed ...
Experimental and analytical systems studies of a combined thermal-photovoltaic residential solar system. Technical status report No. 3
Technical progress reported included testing of the corrosion resistance of a turbine flow meter and parametric studies using computerized simulation of a combined thermal-photovoltaic concentrating collector, thermal storage tank, absorption air conditioner with auxiliary heater, and a load. Also, work on a test facility, including data processing equipment and a cooling load simulator, is reported. (LEW)
System study of an MHD/gas turbine combined-cycle baseload power plant. HTGL report No. 134
The MHD/gas turbine combined-cycle system has been designed specifically for applications where the availability of cooling water is very limited. The base case systems which were studied consisted of an MHD plant with a gas turbine bottoming plant, and required no cooling water. The gas turbine plant uses only air as its working fluid and receives its energy input from the MHD exhaust gases by means of metal tube heat exchangers. In addition to the base case systems, vapor cycle variation systems were considered which included the addition of a vapor cycle bottoming plant to improve the thermal efficiency. These systems required a small amount of cooling water. The MHD/gas turbine systems were modeled with sufficient detail, using realistic component specifications and costs, so that the thermal and economic performance of the system could be accurately determined. Three cases of MHD/gas turbine systems were studied, with Case I being similar to an MHD/steam system so that a direct comparison of the performances could be made, with Case II being representative of a second generation MHD system, and with Case III considering oxygen enrichment for early commercial applications. The systems are nominally 800 MW/sub e/ to 1000 MW/sub e/ in size. The results show that the MHD/gas turbine system has very good thermal and economic performances while requiring either little or no cooling water. Compared to the MHD/steam system which has a cooling tower heat load of 720 MW, the Base Case I MHD/gas turbine system has a heat rate which is 13% higher and a cost of electricity which is only 7% higher while requiring no cooling water. Case II results show that an improved performance can be expected from second generation MHD/gas turbine systems. Case III results show that an oxygen enriched MHD/gas turbine system may be attractive for early commercial applications in dry regions of the country.
Annen, K.D.
Designing power system simulators for the smart grid: combining controls, communications, and electro-mechanical dynamics
Open source software has a leading role in research on simulation technology for electrical power systems. Research simulators demonstrate new features for which there is nascent but growing demand not yet provided for by commercial simulators. Of particular interest is the inclusion of models of software-intensive and communication-intensive controls in simulations of power system transients. This paper describes two features of the ORNL power system simulator that help it meet this need. First is its use of discrete event simulation for all aspects of the model: control, communication, and electro-mechanical dynamics. Second is an interoperability interface that enables the ORNL power system simulator to be integrated with existing, discrete event simulators of digital communication systems. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of how these aspects of the ORNL power system simulator might be inserted into production-grade simulation tools.
Nutaro, James J [ORNL
to adsorption/absorption chiller systems. So, facilitiesabsorption / published in the International Journal of Distributed Energy Resources, vol 6(2),1 Apr-Jun 2010 adsorption chiller);
Storage and Reliability on Microgrid Viability: A Study ofother benefits to the CHP or microgrid system host site. Seecapability in a CERTS Microgrid configuration in reference [
Novel Combination of Enzyme Systems Could Lower Biofuel Costs (Fact Sheet)
Two biomass-degrading enzyme systems that work in very different ways are shown to be more effective at releasing plant sugars when used together.
Secondly, waste heat driven thermal cooling systems are onlyelectricity and thermal energy for cooling and heatingrecovery and cooling technologies, including the thermal-
Sustainable design and durability of domestic micro combined heat and power scroll expander systems.
??Research to understand the mechanisms of wear within the main components of three different micro-CHP scroll expander systems was conducted. This was performed in order� (more)
Tzanakis, Iakovos
systems (typically Stirling engines or CPV modules) forheat engines including Brayton, Ericsson, and Stirling, thefocal-mounted engine (e.g. dish-Stirling) by decoupling the
1?10 kW Stationary Combined Heat and Power Systems Status and...
These systems are fueled using reformate from natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and even kerosene in some demonstrations being conducted in Japan. LT-PEM fuel cell...
Imaging fractional incompressible stripes in integer quantum Hall systems
Transport experiments provide conflicting evidence on the possible existence of fractional order within integer quantum Hall systems. In fact integer edge states sometimes behave as monolithic objects with no inner structure, while other experiments clearly highlight the role of fractional substructures. Recently developed low-temperature scanning probe techniques offer today an opportunity for a deeper-than-ever investigation of spatial features of such edge systems. Here we use scanning gate microscopy and demonstrate that fractional features were unambiguously observed in every integer quantum Hall constriction studied. We present also an experimental estimate of the width of the fractional incompressible stripes corresponding to filling factors 1/3, 2/5, 3/5, and 2/3. Our results compare well with predictions of the edge-reconstruction theory.
Nicola Paradiso; Stefan Heun; Stefano Roddaro; Lucia Sorba; Fabio Beltram; Giorgio Biasiol; L. N. Pfeiffer; K. W. West
Deaerator pressure control system for a combined cycle steam generator power plant
In a combined cycle steam generation power plant, until steam extraction can be used to reheat the deaerator, the economizer and/or the pegging recirculation are controlled so as to track the pressure upwards of the autocirculation reheater from the low pressure evaporator with a certain lag in pressure, and to establish pressure in the deaerator on the decreasing trend of the autocirculation reheater at a slower rate and without lowering below a minimum pressure so as to prevent the occurrence of bubbling and cavitation effect.
Martens, A.; Myers, G. A.
110 kW Stationary Combined Heat and Power Systems Status and
for SOFC-based mCHP system is presented. January 2013 Keywords: micro-CHP SOFC Anode gas recycle Ejector Energy System Simulation a b s t r a c Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) for small-scale residential applications is presented. A novel detailed pro
Modeling the Performance, Emissions, and Cost of an Entrained-Flow Gasification Combined Cycle System Using
, 1990 Table 1. Characteristics of the Coal Assumed for IGCC System Studies Proximate Analysis Wt-%, run-of-mine for the conversion of a variety of feedstocks, including coal, heavy residue oil, biomass, solid waste, and others is presented to illustrate the typical performance, emissions, and cost of a coal- based system
Frey, H. Christopher
Method and system for the diagnosis of disease using retinal image content and an archive of diagnosed human patient data
A method for diagnosing diseases having retinal manifestations including retinal pathologies includes the steps of providing a CBIR system including an archive of stored digital retinal photography images and diagnosed patient data corresponding to the retinal photography images, the stored images each indexed in a CBIR database using a plurality of feature vectors, the feature vectors corresponding to distinct descriptive characteristics of the stored images. A query image of the retina of a patient is obtained. Using image processing, regions or structures in the query image are identified. The regions or structures are then described using the plurality of feature vectors. At least one relevant stored image from the archive based on similarity to the regions or structures is retrieved, and an eye disease or a disease having retinal manifestations in the patient is diagnosed based on the diagnosed patient data associated with the relevant stored image(s).
Tobin, Kenneth W; Karnowski, Thomas P; Chaum, Edward
Visualizing petroleum systems with a combination of GIS and multimedia technologies: An example from the West Siberia Basin
Petroleum system studies provide an ideal application for the combination of Geographic Information System (GIS) and multimedia technologies. GIS technology is used to build and maintain the spatial and tabular data within the study region. Spatial data may comprise the zones of active source rocks and potential reservoir facies. Similarly, tabular data include the attendant source rock parameters (e.g. pyroloysis results, organic carbon content) and field-level exploration and production histories for the basin. Once the spatial and tabular data base has been constructed, GIS technology is useful in finding favorable exploration trends, such as zones of high organic content, mature source rocks in positions adjacent to sealed, high porosity reservoir facies. Multimedia technology provides powerful visualization tools for petroleum system studies. The components of petroleum system development, most importantly generation, migration and trap development typically span periods of tens to hundreds of millions of years. The ability to animate spatial data over time provides an insightful alternative for studying the development of processes which are only captured in [open quotes]snapshots[close quotes] by static maps. New multimedia-authoring software provides this temporal dimension. The ability to record this data on CD-ROMs and allow user- interactivity further leverages the combination of spatial data bases, tabular data bases and time-based animations. The example used for this study was the Bazhenov-Neocomian petroleum system of West Siberia.
Walsh, D.B.; Grace, J.D. (Earth Science Associates, Arlington, TX (United States))
Energy Agency Solar Heating and Cooling Programme. [43] WHOembody a stand-alone solar heating system. It is assumedrecent growth in solar-thermal heating (Weiss et al. [42]),
by CHP heat output P e Electrical power output of system Qratio of thermal to electrical power output R d Desiredratio of thermal to electrical power output T a Ambient
customer�s default electricity tariff, natural gas prices,NetApp electricity prices are based on utility tariffs intariffs during the weekends (as compared to the weekdays) results in the CCP system remaining always off, as purchase of electricity
Combining a Multithreaded Scene Graph System with a Tiled Display Environment
This case study highlights the technical challenges of creating an application that uses a multithreaded scene graph toolkit for rendering and uses a software environment for management of tiled display systems. Scene graph toolkits simplify and streamline graphics applications by providing data management and rendering services. Software for tiled display environments typically performs device and event management by opening windows on displays, by gathering and processing input device events, and by orchestrating the execution of application rendering code. These environments serve double-duty as frameworks for creating parallel rendering applications. We explore technical issues related to interfacing scene graph systems with software that manages tiled projection systems in the context of an implementation, and formulate suggestions for the future growth of such systems.
Frank, R; Bethel, W
Combining GA and iterative MVDR for DOA estimation in space-time CDMA systems
This paper deals with direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation of minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) approach based on iterative searching technique for space-time code-division multiple access (CDMA) systems. It has been shown that the iterative ...
Jhih-Chung Chang
Subcontract Report: Modular Combined Heat & Power System for Utica College: Design Specification
Utica College, located in Utica New York, intends to install an on-site power/cogeneration facility. The energy facility is to be factory pre-assembled, or pre- assembled in modules, to the fullest extent possible, and ready to install and interconnect at the College with minimal time and engineering needs. External connections will be limited to fuel supply, electrical output, potable makeup water as required and cooling and heat recovery systems. The proposed facility will consist of 4 self-contained, modular Cummins 330kW engine generators with heat recovery systems and the only external connections will be fuel supply, electrical outputs and cooling and heat recovery systems. This project was eventually cancelled due to changing DOE budget priorities, but the project engineers produced this system design specification in hopes that it may be useful in future endeavors.
Rouse, Greg [Gas Technology Institute
Generation Maintenance Applications Center: Combined-Cycle Combustion-Turbine Static Starting System Maintenance Guide
This guide provides information to assist personnel involved with the maintenance of combustion-turbine static start systems, planning, predictive, and preventive maintenance techniques; failure mode information; and troubleshooting guidance.BackgroundAs the fleet of combustion turbines grows, it is critical for the starting systems to be understood and properly maintained in order to ensure the reliability of combustion-turbine generating units and the ...
Combined Operation of Solar Energy Source Heat Pump, Low-vale Electricity and Floor Radiant System
Today energy sources are decreasing and saving energy conservation becomes more important. Therefore, it becomes an important investigative direction how to use reproducible energy sources in the HVAC field. The feasibility and necessity of using solar energy, low-vale electricity as heat sources in a floor radiant system are analyzed. This paper presents a new heat pump system and discusses its operational modes in winter.
Liu, G.; Guo, Z.; Hu, S.
Structural analysis of magnetic fusion energy systems in a combined interactive/batch computer environment
A system of computer programs has been developed to aid in the preparation of input data for and the evaluation of output data from finite element structural analyses of magnetic fusion energy devices. The system utilizes the NASTRAN structural analysis computer program and a special set of interactive pre- and post-processor computer programs, and has been designed for use in an environment wherein a time-share computer system is linked to a batch computer system. In such an environment, the analyst must only enter, review and/or manipulate data through interactive terminals linked to the time-share computer system. The primary pre-processor programs include NASDAT, NASERR and TORMAC. NASDAT and TORMAC are used to generate NASTRAN input data. NASERR performs routine error checks on this data. The NASTRAN program is run on a batch computer system using data generated by NASDAT and TORMAC. The primary post-processing programs include NASCMP and NASPOP. NASCMP is used to compress the data initially stored on magnetic tape by NASTRAN so as to facilitate interactive use of the data. NASPOP reads the data stored by NASCMP and reproduces NASTRAN output for selected grid points, elements and/or data types.
Johnson, N.E.; Singhal, M.K.; Walls, J.C.; Gray, W.H.
Ultrasonic imaging system for in-process fabric defect detection
An ultrasonic method and system are provided for monitoring a fabric to identify a defect. A plurality of ultrasonic transmitters generate ultrasonic waves relative to the fabric. An ultrasonic receiver means responsive to the generated ultrasonic waves from the transmitters receives ultrasonic waves coupled through the fabric and generates a signal. An integrated peak value of the generated signal is applied to a digital signal processor and is digitized. The digitized signal is processed to identify a defect in the fabric. The digitized signal processing includes a median value filtering step to filter out high frequency noise. Then a mean value and standard deviation of the median value filtered signal is calculated. The calculated mean value and standard deviation are compared with predetermined threshold values to identify a defect in the fabric.
Sheen, Shuh-Haw (Naperville, IL); Chien, Hual-Te (Naperville, IL); Lawrence, William P. (Downers Grove, IL); Raptis, Apostolos C. (Downers Grove, IL)
Installation and Initial Operation of an On-line Target Imaging System for SNS
After several years of operation, the SNS now enters an era of megawatt class operation. At this intensity level, the target will be operating closer to its engineering limits and the beam profile on target must be carefully controlled. During commissioning and early operations, a temporary imaging system was used to measure the proton density on target. This system was not designed to survive the increasing power levels and it had to be removed in the second half of 2006. Since then, no direct measurement of beam properties at the target has been available. A collaboration was forged to remedy this situation, and has resulted in a new imaging system consisting of three major components: a thermal-sprayed luminescent coating deposited on the target nose, a radiation-tolerant optical system installed upstream of the target, and an image acquisition system integrated with the accelerator controls network. The design, installation, and integration of these components will be described. Initial beam measurements and image analysis results will be presented. Lessons learned during this initial operating experience have been documented and will guide the collaboration s future plans.
McManamy, Thomas J [ORNL; Banke, Glenn [Stony Brook University (SUNY); Blokland, Willem [ORNL; Brunson, Aly [ORNL; Dayton, Michael J [ORNL; Goetz, Kathleen C [ORNL; Janney, Jim G [ORNL; Lance, Michael J [ORNL; Maxey, L Curt [ORNL; Montgomery, Fred C [ORNL; Rosenblad, Peter M [ORNL; Sampath, Sanjay [Stony Brook University (SUNY); Simpson, Marc Livingstone [ORNL; Shea, Thomas J [ORNL
Selection of Image Parameters as the First Step towards Creating a CBIR System for the Solar Dynamics Observatory
This work describes the attribute evaluation sections of the ambitious goal of creating a large-scale content-based image retrieval (CBIR) system for solar phenomena in NASA images from the Solar Dynamics Observatory mission. This mission, with its Atmospheric ... Keywords: Attribute evaluation, content based image retrieval, correlation analysis, classification
Juan M. Banda; Rafal A. Angryk
Energy Efficiency Evaluation of Refrigeration Technologies in Combined Cooling, Heating and Power Systems
With development of absorption refrigeration technology, the cooling requirement can be met using various optional refrigeration technologies in a CCHP system, including compression refrigeration, steam double-effect absorption refrigeration, steam single-effect absorption refrigeration, flue gas absorption refrigeration and hot water absorption refrigeration, etc. As a universal criterion, the COP coefficient cannot reflect the difference in availability of driving energy for different chillers. Exergy efficiency of optional chillers in CCHP system was analyzed and compared, which can be regarded as an important reference criterion in comparison of energy efficiency. Furthermore, a new index, relative electricity saving ratio, was put forward for evaluating end energy efficiency of all kinds of chillers in a CCHP system, which indicates actual energy or electricity saving ratio for different absorption chillers with various parameters in contrast to the reference electricity-driven refrigeration scheme.
Zuo, Z.; Hu, W.
Two well storage systems for combined heating and airconditioning by groundwater heatpumps in shallow aquifers
The use of soil and ground water as an energy source and heat storage systems for heat pumps in order to conserve energy in heating and air conditioning buildings is discussed. Information is included on heat pump operation and performance, aquifer characteristics, soil and ground water temperatures, and cooling and heating demands. Mathematical models are used to calculate flow and temperature fields in the aquifer. It is concluded that two well storage systems with ground water heat pumps are desirable, particularly in northern climates. (LCL)
Pelka, W.
Fuel Cell Power Model Elucidates Life-Cycle Costs for Fuel Cell-Based Combined Heat, Hydrogen, and Power (CHHP) Production Systems (Fact Sheet)
This fact sheet describes NREL's accomplishments in accurately modeling costs for fuel cell-based combined heat, hydrogen, and power systems. Work was performed by NREL's Hydrogen Technologies and Systems Center.
Systems and methods for imaging using radiation from laser produced plasmas
In particular embodiments, the present disclosure provides systems and methods for imaging a subject using radiation emitted from a laser produced plasma generating by irradiating a target with a laser. In particular examples, the target includes at least one radiation enhancing component, such as a fluor, cap, or wire. In further examples, the target has a metal layer and an internal surface defining an internal apex, the internal apex of less than about 15 .mu.m, such as less than about 1 .mu.m. The targets may take a variety of shapes, including cones, pyramids, and hemispheres. Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide improved imaging of a subject, such as improved medical images of a radiation dose than typical conventional methods and systems.
Renard-Le Galloudec, Nathalie (Reno, NV); Cowan, Thomas E. (Reno, NV); Sentoku, Yasuhiko (Reno, NV); Rassuchine, Jennifer (Reno, NV)
Telerobotic system concept for real-time soft-tissue imaging during radiotherapy beam delivery
Purpose: The curative potential of external beam radiation therapy is critically dependent on having the ability to accurately aim radiation beams at intended targets while avoiding surrounding healthy tissues. However, existing technologies are incapable of real-time, volumetric, soft-tissue imaging during radiation beam delivery, when accurate target tracking is most critical. The authors address this challenge in the development and evaluation of a novel, minimally interfering, telerobotic ultrasound (U.S.) imaging system that can be integrated with existing medical linear accelerators (LINACs) for therapy guidance. Methods: A customized human-safe robotic manipulator was designed and built to control the pressure and pitch of an abdominal U.S. transducer while avoiding LINAC gantry collisions. A haptic device was integrated to remotely control the robotic manipulator motion and U.S. image acquisition outside the LINAC room. The ability of the system to continuously maintain high quality prostate images was evaluated in volunteers over extended time periods. Treatment feasibility was assessed by comparing a clinically deployed prostate treatment plan to an alternative plan in which beam directions were restricted to sectors that did not interfere with the transabdominal U.S. transducer. To demonstrate imaging capability concurrent with delivery, robot performance and U.S. target tracking in a phantom were tested with a 15 MV radiation beam active. Results: Remote image acquisition and maintenance of image quality with the haptic interface was successfully demonstrated over 10 min periods in representative treatment setups of volunteers. Furthermore, the robot's ability to maintain a constant probe force and desired pitch angle was unaffected by the LINAC beam. For a representative prostate patient, the dose-volume histogram (DVH) for a plan with restricted sectors remained virtually identical to the DVH of a clinically deployed plan. With reduced margins, as would be enabled by real-time imaging, gross tumor volume coverage was identical while notable reductions of bladder and rectal volumes exposed to large doses were possible. The quality of U.S. images obtained during beam operation was not appreciably degraded by radiofrequency interference and 2D tracking of a phantom object in U.S. images obtained with the beam on/off yielded no significant differences. Conclusions: Remotely controlled robotic U.S. imaging is feasible in the radiotherapy environment and for the first time may offer real-time volumetric soft-tissue guidance concurrent with radiotherapy delivery.
Schlosser, Jeffrey; Salisbury, Kenneth; Hristov, Dimitre [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305 (United States); Department of Computer Science and Department of Surgery, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305 (United States); Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305 (United States)
1 10 kW Stationary Combined Heat and Power Systems Status and Technical Potential: Independent Review
1-10 kW Stationary Combined Heat 1-10 kW Stationary Combined Heat and Power Systems Status and Technical Potential National Renewable Energy Laboratory 1617 Cole Boulevard * Golden, Colorado 80401 303-275-3000 * www.nrel.gov NREL is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. Contract No. DE-AC36-08GO28308 Independent Review Published for the U.S. Department of Energy Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Program NREL/BK-6A10-48265 November 2010 NOTICE This report was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an agency of the United States government. Neither the United States government nor any agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty, express or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or
Removal of ammonia from contaminated air in a biotrickling filter Denitrifying bioreactor combination system
rights reserved. 1. Introduction Ammonia emissions are very common in operations such as composting of the difficulty of closing the nitrogen balance in systems such as compost beds which already contain signifi., Smet, E., 2002. Regeneration of a compost biofilter degrading high loads of ammonia by addition
e n / k W h (0.067$/kWh). n heat price Current system C+PV+(PV+(DERwith CHP) DERwith CHP Do- Nothing Ene;rgy aver age pric e]\\/kWi) Fig.12.Heat unit price
Heat recovery steam generator outlet temperature control system for a combined cycle power plant
This patent describes a command cycle electrical power plant including: a steam turbine and at least one set comprising a gas turbine, an afterburner and a heat recovery steam generator having an attemperator for supplying from an outlet thereof to the steam turbine superheated steam under steam turbine operating conditions requiring predetermined superheated steam temperature, flow and pressure; with the gas turbine and steam turbine each generating megawatts in accordance with a plant load demand; master control means being provided for controlling the steam turbine and the heat recovery steam generator so as to establish the steam operating conditions; the combination of: first control means responsive to the gas inlet temperature of the heat recovery steam generator and to the plant load demand for controlling the firing of the afterburner; second control means responsive to the superheated steam predetermined temperature and to superheated steam temperature from the outlet for controlling the attemperator between a closed and an open position; the first and second control means being operated concurrently to maintain the superheated steam outlet temperature while controlling the load of the gas turbine independently of the steam turbine operating conditions.
Martens, A.; Myers, G.A.; McCarty, W.L.; Wescott, K.R.
GAS meter reading from real world images using a multi-net system
We present a new approach for automatic gas meter reading from real world images. The gas meter reading is usually done on site by an operator and a picture is taken from a mobile device as proof of reading. Since the reading operation is prone to errors, ... Keywords: Multi-net system, Neural networks, Object detection, Object segmentation, Ocr, Text localization
Marco Vanetti; Ignazio Gallo; Angelo Nodari
Security Analysis and Implementation of JUIT�Image Based Authentication System Using Kerberos Protocol
Secure environments protect their resources against unauthorized access by enforcing access control mechanisms. So when increasing security is an issue text based passwords are not enough to counter such problems. The need for something more secure along ... Keywords: Image Based Authentication System, AJAX, MySQL, Diffie-Hellman key Exchange, Kerberos Protocol, Keystroke Logging, Tempest Attack, Shoulder Attack, Brute-force Attack
Nitin; Durg Singh Chauhan; Vivek Kumar Sehgal; Ankit Mahanot; Pallavi Singh; Sohit Ahuja; Utkarsh Shrivastava; Manisha Rana; Vineet Punjabi; Shivam Vinay; Nakul Sharma
Comparing Simplification and Image-Based Techniques for 3D Client-Server Rendering Systems
Comparing Simplification and Image-Based Techniques for 3D Client-Server Rendering Systems W transfer and rendering load of the methods. Byte size and expected lifetime of simplifications. An example result is that in typical viewing and rendering conditions and for objects with a radius
Jansen, Erik
Novel Combination of Enzyme Systems Could Lower Biofuel Costs (Fact Sheet), Highlights in Science, NREL (National Renewable Energy Laboratory)
Two natural enzyme systems-one produced by Two natural enzyme systems-one produced by fungi and the other by bacteria-break down cel- lulose faster if used in combination. The resulting process shows promise for less expensive biofuels. Researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) and their partners studied a cocktail of individual fungal enzymes that depoly- merize biomass, and an alternative bacterial system in which multiple biomass-degrading enzymes, termed the cellulosome, are linked together by a protein scaffold. This study suggests that two of the most thoroughly studied and distinct paradigms of biomass degradation, namely free fungal enzymes and multi-enzyme bacterial cellulosomes, function together in an unexpected way to efficiently break down polysaccharides.
Printed on recycled paperPERFORMANCE OF A COMBINED SOLAR DESICCANT FILTRATION AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM
A solar desiccant filtration system and conventional system were compared by simulating their performance over a cooling season using TRNSYS and Typic,aI Meteorological Year (TMY) weather data for a r,a.nge of system p�arameters. The desiccant dehumidifier was modeled as a heat �and m,ass exe hanger with moisture and temperature effectivenesses based on the equilibrium intersection point. The activated carbon filter was modeled as a reduction of required ventilation tlow rate to m,aintain acceptable contamirmnt levels in the space. Several locations were investigated. The desiccant isotherm shape was varied from a moderate Brunauer Type I to silica gel (line,%) and the solar collector a-ea wxs varied from 0 to 4,000 ft2 to see its effect on the savings per season. The isotherm shape �and location had little effect on the resulting savings. The savings were between $2,800 and!S4,800 per season depending on the amount of collector carea. 1.
S. M. Burley; M. E. Arden; R. Campbell-howe; B. Wilkins-crowder; T. B. Jekel; J. W. Mitchell; S. A. Klein; W. A. Beckman
Combined expert system/neural networks method for process fault diagnosis
A two-level hierarchical approach for process fault diagnosis of an operating system employs a function-oriented approach at a first level and a component characteristic-oriented approach at a second level, where the decision-making procedure is structured in order of decreasing intelligence with increasing precision. At the first level, the diagnostic method is general and has knowledge of the overall process including a wide variety of plant transients and the functional behavior of the process components. An expert system classifies malfunctions by function to narrow the diagnostic focus to a particular set of possible faulty components that could be responsible for the detected functional misbehavior of the operating system. At the second level, the diagnostic method limits its scope to component malfunctions, using more detailed knowledge of component characteristics. Trained artificial neural networks are used to further narrow the diagnosis and to uniquely identify the faulty component by classifying the abnormal condition data as a failure of one of the hypothesized components through component characteristics. Once an anomaly is detected, the hierarchical structure is used to successively narrow the diagnostic focus from a function misbehavior, i.e., a function oriented approach, until the fault can be determined, i.e., a component characteristic-oriented approach. 9 figs.
Reifman, J.; Wei, T.Y.C.
A two-level hierarchical approach for process fault diagnosis is an operating system employs a function-oriented approach at a first level and a component characteristic-oriented approach at a second level, where the decision-making procedure is structured in order of decreasing intelligence with increasing precision. At the first level, the diagnostic method is general and has knowledge of the overall process including a wide variety of plant transients and the functional behavior of the process components. An expert system classifies malfunctions by function to narrow the diagnostic focus to a particular set of possible faulty components that could be responsible for the detected functional misbehavior of the operating system. At the second level, the diagnostic method limits its scope to component malfunctions, using more detailed knowledge of component characteristics. Trained artificial neural networks are used to further narrow the diagnosis and to uniquely identify the faulty component by classifying the abnormal condition data as a failure of one of the hypothesized components through component characteristics. Once an anomaly is detected, the hierarchical structure is used to successively narrow the diagnostic focus from a function misbehavior, i.e., a function oriented approach, until the fault can be determined, i.e., a component characteristic-oriented approach.
Reifman, Jaques (Westchester, IL); Wei, Thomas Y. C. (Downers Grove, IL)
MONICA: a compact, portable dual gamma camera system for mouse whole-body imaging
Introduction We describe a compact, portable dual-gamma camera system (named "MONICA" for MObile Nuclear Imaging CAmeras) for visualizing and analyzing the whole-body biodistribution of putative diagnostic and therapeutic single photon emitting radiotracers in animals the size of mice. Methods Two identical, miniature pixelated NaI(Tl) gamma cameras were fabricated and installed ?looking up? through the tabletop of a compact portable cart. Mice are placed directly on the tabletop for imaging. Camera imaging performance was evaluated with phantoms and field performance was evaluated in a weeklong In-111 imaging study performed in a mouse tumor xenograft model. Results Tc-99m performance measurements, using a photopeak energy window of 140 keV?10%, yielded the following results: spatial resolution (FWHM at 1 cm), 2.2 mm; sensitivity, 149 cps (counts per seconds)/MBq (5.5 cps/?Ci); energy resolution (FWHM, full width at half maximum), 10.8%; count rate linearity (count rate vs. activity), r2=0.99 for 0?185 MBq (0?5 mCi) in the field of view (FOV); spatial uniformity, <3% count rate variation across the FOV. Tumor and whole-body distributions of the In-111 agent were well visualized in all animals in 5-min images acquired throughout the 168-h study period. Conclusion Performance measurements indicate that MONICA is well suited to whole-body single photon mouse imaging. The field study suggests that inter-device communications and user-oriented interfaces included in the MONICA design facilitate use of the system in practice. We believe that MONICA may be particularly useful early in the (cancer) drug development cycle where basic whole-body biodistribution data can direct future development of the agent under study and where logistical factors, e.g., limited imaging space, portability and, potentially, cost are important.
Choyke, Peter L.; Xia, Wenze; Seidel, Jurgen; Kakareka, John W.; Pohida, Thomas J.; Milenic, Diane E.; Proffitt, James; Majewski, Stan; Weisenberger, Andrew G.; Green, Michael V.
High-sensitivity, and cost-effective system for infrared imaging of concealed objects in dynamic mode.
Novel, cost-efficient, and highly-sensitive IR imaging systems play an important role in homeland security functions. Technical limitations in the areas of sensitivity, contrast ratio, bandwidth and cost continue to constrain imaging capabilities. We have designed and prototyped a compact computer-piloted high sensitivity infrared imaging system. The device consists of infrared optics, cryostat, low-noise pre-amplifier, Analog-to-Digital hardware, feedback electronics, and unique image processing software. Important advantages of the developed system are: (i) Eight electronic channels are available for simultaneous registration of IR and visible images in multiple spectral ranges, (ii) Capability of real-time analysis such as comparing the 'sensed' image with 'reference' images from a database, (iii) High accuracy temperature measurement of multiple points on the image by referencing the radiation intensity from the object to a black body model, (iv) Image generation by real-time integration of images from multiple sensors operating from the visible to the terahertz range. The device was tested with a liquid-nitrogen-cooled, single-pixel HgCdTe detector for imaging in 8-12 microns range. The demonstrated examples of infrared imaging of concealed objects in static and dynamic modes include a hammer (metal head and wooden handle), plastic imitator of handguns hidden under clothes, powder in an envelope, and revealing complex wall structures under decorative plaster.
Gordiyenko, E.; Yefremenko, V.; Pearson, J.; Bader, S.; Novosad, V.; Materials Science Division
Compact fuel cell system utilizing a combination of hydrogen storage materials for optimized performance.
An entirely new class of light-weight reversible hydrides was recently discovered (the Ti-doped alanates)[1]. These NaAIH{sub 4}-based materials have demonstrated reversible hydrogen storage capacities of up to 5 wt%, nearly 4 times the gravimetrically density of commercial metal hydrides. For this reason, they have been considered a breakthrough for hydrogen storage in fuel cell vehicles. This project is the first to publish the use of alanates for the generation of electrical power and the first demonstration of a hydride-fueled elevated-temperature PEM Fuel Cell. Because the kinetics of hydrogen uptake and release by the alanate improves with elevated temperatures, novel concepts were tested for the purpose of developing a highly efficient stand-alone power system. A major focus of this work was on the modeling, design, construction and testing of an integrated fuel cell stack and hydrogen storage system that eliminates the need of complicated heat transfer systems and media. After extensive modeling efforts, a proof-of-concept system was built that employs an integrated fuel cell stack and hydride beds that balancing the generation of fuel cell waste heat with the endothermic release of hydrogen from the alanates. Our demonstration unit was capable of greater than one hour of operation on a single charge of hydrogen from the integrated 173 gram alanate bed. In addition, composite hydride materials with synergistic reaction heats were evaluated and tested to enhance the operational performance of the alanates. The composites provide a unique opportunity to utilize the heat produced from hydriding classic metal hydrides to improve both absorption and desorption rates of the alanates. A particular focus of the mixed storage materials work was to balance the thermodynamics and kinetics of the hydrides for start-up conditions. Modeling of the sorption properties proved invaluable in evaluating the optimum composition of hydrides. The modeling efforts were followed by full validation by experimental measurements. This project successfully completed the proof-of-concept goals and generated a powerful set of tools for optimizing the complete power-generation system. It has also created a new direction for hydrogen power generation as well the potential for new R&D based on this work.
Chan, Jennifer P.; Dedrick, Daniel E.; Gross, Karl J.; Ng, Greg L.
HybridStore: A Cost-Efficient, High-Performance Storage System Combining SSDs and HDDs
Unlike the use of DRAM for caching or buffering, certain idiosyncrasies of NAND Flash-based solid-state drives (SSDs) make their integration into existing systems non-trivial. Flash memory suffers from limits on its reliability, is an order of magnitude more expensive than the magnetic hard disk drives (HDDs), and can sometimes be as slow as the HDD (due to excessive garbage collection (GC) induced by high intensity of random writes). Given these trade-offs between HDDs and SSDs in terms of cost, performance, and lifetime, the current consensus among several storage experts is to view SSDs not as a replacement for HDD but rather as a complementary device within the high-performance storage hierarchy. We design and evaluate such a hybrid system called HybridStore to provide: (a) HybridPlan: improved capacity planning technique to administrators with the overall goal of operating within cost-budgets and (b) HybridDyn: improved performance/lifetime guarantees during episodes of deviations from expected workloads through two novel mechanisms: write-regulation and fragmentation busting. As an illustrative example of HybridStore s ef cacy, HybridPlan is able to nd the most cost-effective storage con guration for a large scale workload of Microsoft Research and suggest one MLC SSD with ten 7.2K RPM HDDs instead of fourteen 7.2K RPM HDDs only. HybridDyn is able to reduce the average response time for an enterprise scale random-write dominant workload by about 71% as compared to a HDD-based system.
Kim, Youngjae [ORNL; Gupta, Aayush [Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA; Urgaonkar, Bhuvan [Pennsylvania State University; Piotr, Berman [Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA; Sivasubramaniam, Anand [Pennsylvania State University
Estimation of steady-state unbalanced system conditions combining conventional power flow and fault analysis software
In real three-phase power systems the voltages and currents are not fully symmetrical. A method has been developed to estimate the effects of slight unbalanced network conditions for steady-state operation. A conventional power flow is followed by a linear incremental calculation using a three-phase model of the network. The unbalanced condition is handled like a multiple unbalanced fault. The process is illustrated for the case of a transformer bank with non-identical single phase units. The results show the effects of different transformer reactances and different voltage ratios, respectively.
Reichelt, D.; Ecknauer, E. [Nordostschweizerische Kraftwerke AG, Baden (Switzerland); Glavitsch, H. [Swiss Federal Inst. of Tech., Zurich (Switzerland)
Review of Potential Federal and State Green House Gas Policy Drivers for Combined Heat and Power Systems
The electric power generation sector contributes about one-third of all green house gas (GHG) emissions in the United States. To curb the reduction of green house gas emissions, all options in the electric power value chain must be considered and evaluated. The more efficient utilization of natural gas fuel via use of distributed combined cooling, heating, and power (CHP) systems in the end-use sector may be one option to mitigating GHG emissions. This research project was undertaken to assess the extent...
Combined hydraulic and black-box models for flood forecasting in urban drainage systems
Abstract: Rapid urbanization and its implications for both water quality issues and floods have increased the need for modeling of urban drainage systems. Many operational models are based on deterministic solutions of hydraulic equations. Improving such models by adding a �black-box � component to deal with any systematic structure in the residuals is proposed. In this study, a conventional deterministic stormwater drainage network model is first developed for a rapidly developing catchment using the HYDROWORKS ?now called Infoworks ? package, from Wallingford Software in the United Kingdom. However, despite the generally satisfactory results, the HYDROWORKS model tended to underestimate the flow volume. In this paper, a black-box or �systems � model is fitted to the hydraulic urban drainage model in order to improve its overall efficiency. A study was conducted of suitable black-box models, which included the nonlinear artificial neural network model ?ANN?, and the linear time series models of Box and Jenkins in 1976. They were added to either the output ?in simulation mode ? or, in updating mode, to the residuals ?i.e., difference between modeled and measured output ? of the deterministic hydraulic model. The updating procedure provided a considerable improvement in the overall model efficiency for different lead-time forecasting. In simulation mode, however, only the nonlinear ANN model gave better performance in calibration, and a slight improvement in validation.
Michael Bruen; M. Asce; Jianqing Yang
Performance Improvements to the Neutron Imaging System at the National Ignition Facility
A team headed by LANL and including many members from LLNL and NSTec LO and NSTec LAO fielded a neutron imaging system (NIS) at the National Ignition Facility at the start of 2011. The NIS consists of a pinhole array that is located 32.5 cm from the source and that creates an image of the source in a segmented scintillator 28 m from the source. The scintillator is viewed by two gated, optical imaging systems: one that is fiber coupled, and one that is lens coupled. While there are a number of other pieces to the system related to pinhole alignment, collimation, shielding and data acquisition, those pieces are discussed elsewhere and are not relevant here. The system is operational and has successfully obtained data on more that ten imaging shots. This remainder of this whitepaper is divided in five main sections. In Section II, we identify three critical areas of improvement that we believe should be pursued to improve the performance of the system for future experiments: spatial resolution, temporal response and signal-to-noise ratio. In Section III, we discuss technologies that could be used to improve these critical performance areas. In Section IV, we describe a path to evolve the current system to achieve improved performance with minimal impact on the ability of the system to operate on shots. In Section V, we discuss the abilities, scope and timescales of the current teams and the Commissariat energie atomique (CEA). In Section VI, we summarize and make specific recommendations for collaboration on improvements to the NIS.
Fittinghoff, D N; Bower, D E; Drury, O B; Dzenitis, J M; Hatarik, R; Merrill, F E; Grim, G P; Wilde, C H; Wilson, D C; Landoas, O; Caillaud, T; Bourgade, J; Buckles, R A; Lee, J; Weiss, P B
Making the Earth: Combining Dynamics and Chemistry in the Solar System
No terrestrial planet formation simulation completed to date has considered the detailed chemical composition of the planets produced. While many have considered possible water contents and late veneer compositions, none have examined the bulk elemental abundances of the planets produced as an important check of formation models. Here we report on the first study of this type. Bulk elemental abundances based on disk equilibrium studies have been determined for the simulated terrestrial planets of O'Brien et al. (2006). These abundances are in excellent agreement with observed planetary values, indicating that the models of O'Brien et al. (2006) are successfully producing planets comparable to those of the Solar System in terms of both their dynamical and chemical properties. Significant amounts of water are accreted in the present simulations, implying that the terrestrial planets form "wet" and do not need significant water delivery from other sources. Under the assumption of equilibrium controlled chemistry...
Bond, Jade C; O'Brien, David P
The US Department of Energy (DOE) is sponsoring research, development, and deployment on Light Water Reactor Sustainability (LWRS), in which the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is working closely with nuclear utilities to develop technologies and solutions to help ensure the safe operational life extension of current nuclear power plants. One of the main areas of focus is control room modernization. Within control room modernization, alarm system upgrades present opportunities to meet the broader goals of the LWRS project in demonstrating the use and safety of the advanced instrumentation and control (I&C) technologies and the short-term and longer term objectives of the plant. In this paper, we review approaches for and human factors issues behind upgrading alarms in the main control room of nuclear power plants.
Ronald L. Boring; J.J. Persensky
Autonomous Observing and Control Systems for PAIRITEL, a 1.3m Infrared Imaging Telescope
The Peters Automated Infrared Imaging Telescope (PAIRITEL) is the first meter-class telescope operating as a fully robotic IR imaging system. Dedicated in October 2004, PAIRITEL began regular observations in mid-December 2004 as part of a 1.5 year commissioning period. The system was designed to respond without human intervention to new gamma-ray burst transients: this milestone was finally reached on November 9, 2005 but the telescope had a number of semi-automated sub-10 minute responses throughout early commissioning. When not operating in Target of Opportunity mode, PAIRITEL performs a number of queue scheduled transient monitoring campaigns. To achieve this level of automation, we have developed communicating tools to connect the various sub-systems: an intelligent queue scheduling database, run-time configurable observation sequence software, a data reduction pipeline, and a master state machine which monitors and controls all functions within and affecting the observatory.
J. S. Bloom; Dan L. Starr; Cullen H. Blake; M. F. Skrutskie; Emilio E. Falco
In 2010 May 23-24, Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) observed the launch of two successive coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which were subsequently tracked by the SECCHI suite on board STEREO. Using the COR2 coronagraphs and the heliospheric imagers (HIs), the initial direction of both CMEs is determined to be slightly west of the Sun-Earth line. We derive the CME kinematics, including the evolution of the CME expansion until 0.4 AU. We find that, during the interaction, the second CME decelerates from a speed above 500 km s{sup -1} to 380 km s{sup -1}, the speed of the leading edge of the first CME. STEREO observes a complex structure composed of two different bright tracks in HI2-A but only one bright track in HI2-B. In situ measurements from Wind show an 'isolated' interplanetary CME, with the geometry of a flux rope preceded by a shock. Measurements in the sheath are consistent with draping around the transient. By combining remote-sensing and in situ measurements, we determine that this event shows a clear instance of deflection of two CMEs after their collision, and we estimate the deflection of the first CME to be about 10 Degree-Sign toward the Sun-Earth line. The arrival time, arrival speed, and radius at Earth of the first CME are best predicted from remote-sensing observations taken before the collision of the CMEs. Due to the over-expansion of the CME after the collision, there are few, if any, signs of interaction in in situ measurements. This study illustrates that complex interactions during the Sun-to-Earth propagation may not be revealed by in situ measurements alone.
Lugaz, N.; Farrugia, C. J. [Space Science Center, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH (United States); Davies, J. A.; Davis, C. J. [RAL Space, STFC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Chilton (United Kingdom); Moestl, C. [Space Science Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley, CA (United States); Roussev, I. I. [Yunnan Astronomical Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650011, Yunnan (China); Temmer, M. [Kanzelhoehe Observatory-IGAM, Institute of Physics, University of Graz, A-8010 Graz (Austria)
X-ray tomographic image magnification process, system and apparatus therefor
A computerized three-dimensional x-ray tomographic microscopy system is disclosed, comprising: (a) source means for providing a source of parallel x-ray beams; (b) staging means for staging and sequentially rotating a sample to be positioned in the path of the beams; (c) x-ray image magnifier means positioned in the path of the beams downstream from the sample; (d) detecting means for detecting the beams after being passed through and magnified by the image magnifier means; and (e) computing means for analyzing values received from the detecting means, and converting the values into three-dimensional representations. Also disclosed is a process for magnifying an x-ray image, and apparatus therefor.
Kinney, J.H.; Bonse, U.K.; Johnson, Q.C.; Nichols, M.C.; Saroyan, R.A.; Massey, W.N.; NuBhardt, R.
Video and thermal imaging system for monitoring interiors of high temperature reaction vessels
A system and method for real-time monitoring of the interior of a combustor or gasifier wherein light emitted by the interior surface of a refractory wall of the combustor or gasifier is collected using an imaging fiber optic bundle having a light receiving end and a light output end. Color information in the light is captured with primary color (RGB) filters or complimentary color (GMCY) filters placed over individual pixels of color sensors disposed within a digital color camera in a BAYER mosaic layout, producing RGB signal outputs or GMCY signal outputs. The signal outputs are processed using intensity ratios of the primary color filters or the complimentary color filters, producing video images and/or thermal images of the interior of the combustor or gasifier.
Saveliev, Alexei V. (Chicago, IL); Zelepouga, Serguei A. (Hoffman Estates, IL); Rue, David M. (Chicago, IL)
Combined cycle electric power plant with a steam turbine having a sliding pressure main bypass and control valve system
A combined cycle electric power plant includes two gas turbines, a steam turbine, and a digital control system with an operator analog or manual backup. Each of the gas turbines has an exhaust heat recovery steam generator connected to a common header from which the steam is supplied by one or both of the steam generators for operating the steam turbine. The control system is of the sliding pressure type and maintains a predetermined steam pressure as a function of steam flow according to a predetermined characterization depending on the number of steam generators in service to limit the maximum steam velocity through the steam generators, and reduce the probability of water carryover into the steam turbine. Such control is always maintained by the bypass valve. The turbine control valve responds to the speed/load demand only, except when the bypass valve is closed and the rate of steam generation is insufficient to maintain a predetermined pressure flow relationship.
Uram, R.
Positron emission tomography and optical tissue imaging
A mobile compact imaging system that combines both PET imaging and optical imaging into a single system which can be located in the operating room (OR) and provides faster feedback to determine if a tumor has been fully resected and if there are adequate surgical margins. While final confirmation is obtained from the pathology lab, such a device can reduce the total time necessary for the procedure and the number of iterations required to achieve satisfactory resection of a tumor with good margins.
Falen, Steven W. (Carmichael, CA); Hoefer, Richard A. (Newport News, VA); Majewski, Stanislaw (Yorktown, VA); McKisson, John (Hampton, VA); Kross, Brian (Yorktown, VA); Proffitt, James (Newport News, VA); Stolin, Alexander (Newport News, VA); Weisenberger, Andrew G. (Yorktown, VA)
Monitor and control systems for the SLD Cherenkov Ring Imaging Detector
To help ensure the stable long-term operation of a Cherenkov Ring Detector at high efficiency, a comprehensive monitor and control system is being developed. This system will continuously monitor and maintain the correct operating temperatures, and will provide an on-line monitor and maintain the correct operating temperatures, and will provide an on-line monitor of the pressures, flows, mixing, and purity of the various fluids. In addition the velocities and trajectories of Cherenkov photoelectrons drifting within the imaging chambers will be measured using a pulsed uv lamp and a fiberoptic light injection system. 9 refs., 6 figs.
Antilogus, P.; Aston, D.; Bienz, T.; Bird, F.; Dasu, S.; Dunwoodie, W.; Fernandez, F.; Hallewell, G.; Kawahara, H.; Korff, P.; Kwon, Y.; Leith, D.; Muller, D.; Nagamine, T.; Pavel, T.; Rabinowitz, L.; Ratcliff, B.; Rensing, P.; Schultz, D.; Shapiro, S.; Simopoulos, C.; Solodov, E.; Toge, N.; Va'Vra, J.; Williams, S.; Whitaker, J.; Wilson, R.J.; Bean, A.; Caldwell, D.; Duboscq, J.; Huber, J.; Lu, A.; McHugh, S.; Mathys, L.; Morriso
Experimental methodology for determining the system performance of fluorescent lamp, ballast, fixture combinations operating under realistic application conditions
To meet the need for accurate performance data, an experimental method for determining the performance of lamp, ballast, and luminaire combinations operating under a broad range of realistic conditions was developed. The methodology employs a two-part experimental procedure. The first part uses a temperature-controlled luminous flux integrator to characterize the thermal performance of each lamp/ballast combination. This performance characterization is expressed in terms of light output and efficacy as a function of variations in minimum lamp wall temperature (MLWT) and is generated for the range of temperatures typically encountered in interior lighting applications. The second procedure uses a luminaire/plenum simulator to determine the specific MLWT that exists in a particular luminaire application as a function of luminaire type, mounting configuration, plenum integration, and room air temperature. The MLWTs thus measured may be used in conjunction with the lamp/ballast performance data to determine application-specific values of light output and efficacy for a given lamp/ballast/luminaire system.
Siminovitch, M.J.; Rubinstein, F.M.; Verderber, R.R.
Estimating market penetration of new district heating and cooling systems using a combination of economic cost and diffusion models
The economic-cost model and the diffusion model are among the many market-penetration forecasting approaches that are available. These approaches have been used separately in many applications. In this paper, the authors briefly review these two approaches and then describe a methodology for forecasting market penetration using both approaches sequentially. This methodology is illustrated with the example of market-penetration forecasting of new district heating and cooling (DHC) systems in the Argonne DHC Market Penetration Model, which was developed and used over the period 1979--1983. This paper discusses how this combination approach, which incorporates the strengths of the economic-cost and diffusion models, has been superior to any one approach for market forecasts of DHC systems. Also discussed are the required modifications for revising and updating the model in order to generate new market-penetration forecasts for DHC systems. These modifications are required as a result of changes in DHC engineering, economic, and market data from 1983 to 1990. 13 refs., 5 figs., 2 tabs.
Teotia, A.P.S.; Karvelas, D.E.
A monochromatic x-ray imaging system for characterizing low-density foams
In High Energy Density (HED) laser experiments, targets often require small, low-density, foam components. However, their limited size can preclude single component characterization, forcing one to rely solely on less accurate bulk measurements. We have developed a monochromatic imaging a system to characterize both the density and uniformity of single component low-mass foams. This x-ray assembly is capable of determining line-averaged density variations near the 1% level, and provides statistically identical results to those obtained at the Brookhaven's NSLS. This system has the added benefit of providing two-dimensional density data, allowing an assessment of density uniformity.
Lanier, Nicholas E. [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Taccetti, Jose M. [Los Alamos National Laboratory; Hamilton, Christopher E. [Los Alamos National Laboratory
Experimental and analytical systems studies of a combined thermal-photovoltaic residential solar system. Technical status report No. 5, April 1-May 31, 1980
The Photovoltaic-Thermal research program schedule is diagrammed. Specifications are given for the combined concentrator Thermal-Photovoltaic Collector Array. The specifications are such as to make the array compatible with a test facility being constructed. Preliminary system checks, manual operation tests, and computer operation tests are described for evaluating the performance of a cooling load simulator. A paper entitled Transient Effects on the Performance of a Residential Solar Absorption Chiller is appended which is concerned with the transient performance of a 3-ton lithium-bromide/water absorption chiller. (LEW)
Imaging of reservoirs and fracture systems using microearthquakes induced by hydraulic injections
Predicting the future performance of a geothermal reservoir and planning a strategy for increasing productivity from the reservoir require an intimate knowledge of the fracture system through which geothermal fluids permeate. Microearthquakes often accompany hydraulic fracturing as well as normal production activities in geothermal fields. The waveforms from the se microearthquakes provide valuable information that can be used to infer the three-dimensional structure of the fracture system in the reservoir. The locations of the microearthquakes can be used to infer the presence of large fractures along which shear slip has occurred. Tomographic imaging using arrival times of the seismic waves, provides a three-dimensional image of the P and S wave velocity structure of the reservoir. These velocities yield information about the presence of microfractures in the rock. Waveform stacking methods can be used to both corroborate seismic velocities and image seismic scatters in the reservoir. The most prominent seismic scatters are likely to be fluid-filled fractures. Thus, seismic data provide information about a fractures over a large scale range which can be of use in reservoir engineering. 32 refs., 4 figs.
Fehler, M.; House, L.; Phillips, W.S. (Los Alamos National Lab., NM (USA)); Block, L.; Cheng, C.H. (Massachusetts Inst. of Tech., Cambridge, MA (USA). Earth Resources Lab.)
SPIE Medical Imaging Medical Imaging
1 SPIE Medical Imaging 2006 1 Medical Imaging Fundamentals Kenneth H. Wong, Ph.D. Division of Computer Assisted Interventions and Medical Robotics (CAIMR) Imaging Science and Information Systems (ISIS) Center Department of Radiology Georgetown University SPIE Medical Imaging 2006 2 Main Themes · Describe
Miga, Michael I.
Combined cycle electric power plant having a control system which enables dry steam generator operation during gas turbine operation
A control system for a combined cycle electric power plant is described. It contains: at least one gas turbine including an exit through which heated exhaust gases pass; means for generating steam coupled to said gas turbine exit for transferring heat from the exhaust gases to a fluid passing through the steam generator; a steam turbine coupled to the steam generator and driven by the steam supplied thereby; means for generating electric power by the driving power of the turbines; condenser means for receiving and converting the spent steam from the steam turbine into condensate; and steam generating means comprising a low pressure storage tank, a first heat exchange tube, a boiler feedwater pump for directing fluid from a low pressure storage tank through the first heat exchange tube, a main storage drum, a second heat exchange tube, and a high pressure recirculation pump for directing fluid from the main storage pump through the second heat exchange tube. The control system monitors the temperature of the exhaust gas turbine gases as directed to the steam generator and deactuates the steam turbine when a predetermined temperature is exceeded.
Martz, L.F.; Plotnick, R.J.
Study of the validity of a combined potential model using the hybrid reverse Monte Carlo method in fluoride glass system
The choice of appropriate interaction models is among the major disadvantages of conventional methods such as molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. On the other hand, the so-called reverse Monte Carlo (RMC) method, based on experimental data, can be applied without any interatomic and/or intermolecular interactions. The RMC results are accompanied by artificial satellite peaks. To remedy this problem, we use an extension of the RMC algorithm, which introduces an energy penalty term into the acceptance criteria. This method is referred to as the hybrid reverse Monte Carlo (HRMC) method. The idea of this paper is to test the validity of a combined potential model of coulomb and Lennard-Jones in a fluoride glass system BaMnMF_{7} (M=Fe,V) using HRMC method. The results show a good agreement between experimental and calculated characteristics, as well as a meaningful improvement in partial pair distribution functions. We suggest that this model should be used in calculating the structural properties and in describing the average correlations between components of fluoride glass or a similar system. We also suggest that HRMC could be useful as a tool for testing the interaction potential models, as well as for conventional applications.
S. M. Mesli; M. Habchi; M. Kotbi; H. Xu
Forecast Combinations
Forecast combinations have frequently been found in empirical studies to produce better forecasts on average than methods based on the ex-ante best individual forecasting model. Moreover, simple combinations that ignore correlations between forecast errors often dominate more refined combination schemes aimed at estimating the theoretically optimal combination weights. In this chapter we analyze theoretically the factors that determine the advantages from combining forecasts (for example, the degree of correlation between forecast errors and the relative size of the individual models� forecast error variances). Although the reasons for the success of simple combination schemes are poorly understood, we discuss several possibilities related to model misspecification, instability (non-stationarities) and estimation error in situations where thenumbersofmodelsislargerelativetothe available sample size. We discuss the role of combinations under asymmetric loss and consider combinations of point, interval and probability forecasts. Key words: Forecast combinations; pooling and trimming; shrinkage methods; model misspecification, diversification gains
Allan Timmermann; Jel Codes C
Development of New Soft Ionization Mass Spectrometry Approaches for Spatial Imaging of Complex Chemical and Biological Systems
Chemical and Biological Systems Research Team: Julia Laskin, Ljiljana Pasa-Toli, Brandi Heath, Ingela Laskin (PNNL) Purpose Multimodal chemical characterization of microbial biofilms focused bacterial colonies Develop novel mass spectrometry-based chemical imaging capabilities broadly applicable
Method and system for the combination of non-thermal plasma and metal/metal oxide doped .gamma.-alumina catalysts for diesel engine exhaust aftertreatment system
The present disclosure pertains to a system and method for treatment of oxygen rich exhaust and more specifically to a method and system that combines non-thermal plasma with a metal doped .gamma.-alumina catalyst. Current catalyst systems for the treatment of oxygen rich exhaust are capable of achieving only approximately 7 to 12% NO.sub.x reduction as a passive system and only 25 40% reduction when a supplemental hydrocarbon reductant is injected into the exhaust stream. It has been found that treatment of an oxygen rich exhaust initially with a non-thermal plasma and followed by subsequent treatment with a metal doped .gamma.-alumina prepared by the sol gel method is capable of increasing the NO.sub.x reduction to a level of approximately 90% in the absence of SO.sub.2 and 80% in the presence of 20 ppm of SO.sub.2. Especially useful metals have been found to be indium, gallium, and tin.
Aardahl, Christopher L. (Richland, WA); Balmer-Miller, Mari Lou (West Richland, WA); Chanda, Ashok (Peoria, IL); Habeger, Craig F. (West Richland, WA); Koshkarian, Kent A. (Peoria, IL); Park, Paul W. (Peoria, IL)
Multi-resolution system for artifact removal and edge enhancement in computerized tomography images
The aim of image enhancement means adopting some technical method, which includes algorithm, to stand out the interested characteristics of the image and to restrain some useless characteristics of the image. The image, which has been improved, can satisfy ... Keywords: Edge enhancement, Industrial CT images, Multi-resolution techniques
S. Arivazhagan; S. Deivalakshmi; K. Kannan; B. N. Gajbhiye; C. Muralidhar; Sijo N. Lukose; M. P. Subramanian
3D ultrasound imaging for prosthesis fabrication and diagnostic imaging
The fabrication of a prosthetic socket for a below-the-knee amputee requires knowledge of the underlying bone structure in order to provide pressure relief for sensitive areas and support for load bearing areas. The goal is to enable the residual limb to bear pressure with greater ease and utility. Conventional methods of prosthesis fabrication are based on limited knowledge about the patient`s underlying bone structure. A 3D ultrasound imaging system was developed at Sandia National Laboratories. The imaging system provides information about the location of the bones in the residual limb along with the shape of the skin surface. Computer assisted design (CAD) software can use this data to design prosthetic sockets for amputees. Ultrasound was selected as the imaging modality. A computer model was developed to analyze the effect of the various scanning parameters and to assist in the design of the overall system. The 3D ultrasound imaging system combines off-the-shelf technology for image capturing, custom hardware, and control and image processing software to generate two types of image data -- volumetric and planar. Both volumetric and planar images reveal definition of skin and bone geometry with planar images providing details on muscle fascial planes, muscle/fat interfaces, and blood vessel definition. The 3D ultrasound imaging system was tested on 9 unilateral below-the- knee amputees. Image data was acquired from both the sound limb and the residual limb. The imaging system was operated in both volumetric and planar formats. An x-ray CT (Computed Tomography) scan was performed on each amputee for comparison. Results of the test indicate beneficial use of ultrasound to generate databases for fabrication of prostheses at a lower cost and with better initial fit as compared to manually fabricated prostheses.
Morimoto, A.K.; Bow, W.J.; Strong, D.S. [and others
Assessment of the Current Level of Automation in the Manufacture of Fuel Cell Systems for Combined Heat and Power Applications
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is interested in supporting manufacturing research and development (R&D) for fuel cell systems in the 10-1,000 kilowatt (kW) power range relevant to stationary and distributed combined heat and power applications, with the intent to reduce manufacturing costs and increase production throughput. To assist in future decision-making, DOE requested that the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) provide a baseline understanding of the current levels of adoption of automation in manufacturing processes and flow, as well as of continuous processes. NREL identified and visited or interviewed key manufacturers, universities, and laboratories relevant to the study using a standard questionnaire. The questionnaire covered the current level of vertical integration, the importance of quality control developments for automation, the current level of automation and source of automation design, critical balance of plant issues, potential for continuous cell manufacturing, key manufacturing steps or processes that would benefit from DOE support for manufacturing R&D, the potential for cell or stack design changes to support automation, and the relationship between production volume and decisions on automation.
Ulsh, M.; Wheeler, D.; Protopappas, P.
Collimator design for a dedicated molecular breast imaging-guided biopsy system: Proof-of-concept
Purpose: Molecular breast imaging (MBI) is a dedicated nuclear medicine breast imaging modality that employs dual-head cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) gamma cameras to functionally detect breast cancer. MBI has been shown to detect breast cancers otherwise occult on mammography and ultrasound. Currently, a MBI-guided biopsy system does not exist to biopsy such lesions. Our objective was to consider the utility of a novel conical slant-hole (CSH) collimator for rapid (<1 min) and accurate monitoring of lesion position to serve as part of a MBI-guided biopsy system. Methods: An initial CSH collimator design was derived from the dimensions of a parallel-hole collimator optimized for MBI performed with dual-head CZT gamma cameras. The parameters of the CSH collimator included the collimator height, cone slant angle, thickness of septa and cones of the collimator, and the annular areas exposed at the base of the cones. These parameters were varied within the geometric constraints of the MBI system to create several potential CSH collimator designs. The CSH collimator designs were evaluated using Monte Carlo simulations. The model included a breast compressed to a thickness of 6 cm with a 1-cm diameter lesion located 3 cm from the collimator face. The number of particles simulated was chosen to represent the count density of a low-dose, screening MBI study acquired with the parallel-hole collimator for 10 min after a {approx}150 MBq (4 mCi) injection of Tc-99m sestamibi. The same number of particles was used for the CSH collimator simulations. In the resulting simulated images, the count sensitivity, spatial resolution, and accuracy of the lesion depth determined from the lesion profile width were evaluated. Results: The CSH collimator design with default parameters derived from the optimal parallel-hole collimator provided 1-min images with error in the lesion depth estimation of 1.1 {+-} 0.7 mm and over 21 times the lesion count sensitivity relative to 1-min images acquired with the current parallel-hole collimator. Sensitivity was increased via more vertical cone slant angles, larger annular areas, thinner cone walls, shorter cone heights, and thinner radiating septa. Full width at half maximum trended in the opposite direction as sensitivity for all parameters. There was less error in the depth estimates for less vertical slant angles, smaller annular areas, thinner cone walls, cone heights near 1 cm, and generally thinner radiating septa. Conclusions: A Monte Carlo model was used to demonstrate the feasibility of a CSH collimator design for rapid biopsy application in molecular breast imaging. Specifically, lesion depth of a 1-cm diameter lesion positioned in the center of a typical breast can be estimated with error of less than 2 mm using circumferential count profiles of images acquired in 1 min.
Weinmann, Amanda L.; Hruska, Carrie B.; Conners, Amy L.; O'Connor, Michael K. [Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905 (United States)
Analysis of Biomass/Coal Co-Gasification for Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) Systems with Carbon Capture.
?? In recent years, Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Technology (IGCC) has become more common in clean coal power operations with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS).� (more)
Long, Henry A, III
High resolution biomedical imaging system with direct detection of x-rays via a charge coupled device
An imaging system is provided for direct detection of x-rays from an irradiated biological tissue. The imaging system includes an energy source for emitting x-rays toward the biological tissue and a charge coupled device (CCD) located immediately adjacent the biological tissue and arranged transverse to the direction of irradiation along which the x-rays travel. The CCD directly receives and detects the x-rays after passing through the biological tissue. The CCD is divided into a matrix of cells, each of which individually stores a count of x-rays directly detected by the cell. The imaging system further includes a pattern generator electrically coupled to the CCD for reading a count from each cell. A display device is provided for displaying an image representative of the count read by the pattern generator from the cells of the CCD.
Atac, Muzaffer (Wheaton, IL); McKay, Timothy A. (Ann Arbor, MI)
Test, Evaluation, and Demonstration of Practical Devices/Systems to Reduce Aerodynamic Drag of Tractor/Semitrailer Combination Unit Trucks
Class 8 heavy-duty trucks account for over three-quarters of the total diesel fuel used by commercial trucks (trucks with GVWRs more than 10,000 pounds) in the United States each year. At the highway speeds at which these trucks travel (i.e., 60 mph or greater), aerodynamic drag is a major part of total horsepower needed to move the truck down the highway, Reductions in aerodynamic drag can yield measurable benefits in fuel economy through the use of relatively inexpensive and simple devices. The goal of this project was to examine a number of aerodynamic drag reduction devices and systems and determine their effectiveness in reducing aerodynamic drag of Class 8 tractor/semitrailer combination-units, thus contributing to DOE's goal of reducing transportation petroleum use. The project team included major heavy truck manufacturers in the United States, along with the management and industry expertise of the Truck Manufacturers Association as the lead investigative organization. The Truck Manufacturers Association (TMA) is the national trade association representing the major North American manufacturers of Class 6-8 trucks (GVWRs over 19,500 lbs). Four major truck manufacturers participated in this project with TMA: Freightliner LLC; International Truck and Engine Corporation; Mack Trucks Inc.; and Volvo Trucks North America, Inc. Together, these manufacturers represent over three-quarters of total Class 8 truck sales in the United States. These four manufacturers pursued complementary research efforts as part of this project. The project work was separated into two phases conducted over a two-year period. In Phase I, candidate aerodynamic devices and systems were screened to focus research and development attention on devices that offered the most potential. This was accomplished using full-size vehicle tests, scale model tests, and computational fluid dynamics analyses. In Phase II, the most promising devices were installed on full-size trucks and their effect on fuel economy was determined, either through on-road testing or full-size wind tunnel testing. All of the manufacturers worked with devices and systems that offer practical solutions to reduce aerodynamic drag, accounting for functionality, durability, cost effectiveness, reliability, and maintainability. The project team members and their roles and responsibilities are shown in Figure 2-1. Figure 2-2 shows the Phase I and II project schedules for all four projects and associated management activities.
Scott Smith; Karla Younessi; Matt Markstaller; Dan Schlesinger; Bhaskar Bhatnagar; Donald Smith; Bruno Banceu; Ron Schoon; V.K. Sharma; Mark Kachmarsky; Srikant Ghantae; Michael Sorrels; Conal Deedy; Justin Clark; Skip Yeakel; Michael D. Laughlin; Charlotte Seigler; Sidney Diamond
Multispectral thermal imaging
Many remote sensing applications rely on imaging spectrometry. Here the authors use imaging spectrometry for thermal and multispectral signatures measured from a satellite platform enhanced with a combination of accurate calibrations and on-board data for correcting atmospheric distortions. The approach is supported by physics-based end-to-end modeling and analysis, which permits a cost-effective balance between various hardware and software aspects. The goal is to develop and demonstrate advanced technologies and analysis tools toward meeting the needs of the customer; at the same time, the attributes of this system can address other applications in such areas as environmental change, agriculture, and volcanology.
Weber, P.G.; Bender, S.C.; Borel, C.C.; Clodius, W.B.; Smith, B.W. [Los Alamos National Lab., NM (United States). Space and Remote Sensing Sciences Group; Garrett, A.; Pendergast, M.M. [Westinghouse Savannah River Corp., Aiken, SC (United States). Savannah River Technology Center; Kay, R.R. [Sandia National Lab., Albuquerque, NM (United States). Monitoring Systems and Technology Center
Title: PedSono -High Frequency Pediatric Ultrasound Imaging Systems Project Team
Ultrasonic Transducer Technology Abstract: Non-invasive imaging of internal organs without radiation exposure
Mel, Bartlett
First results from the MIT optical rapid imaging system (MORIS) on the IRTF: A stellar occultation by Pluto and a transit by exoplanet XO-2b
We present a high-speed, visible-wavelength imaging instrument: MORIS (the MIT Optical Rapid Imaging System). MORIS is mounted on the 3 m Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF) on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. Its primary component is ...
Gulbis, Amanda A. S.
The drive system of the Major Atmospheric Gamma-ray Imaging Cherenkov Telescope
The MAGIC telescope is an imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescope, designed to observe very high energy gamma-rays while achieving a low energy threshold. One of the key science goals is fast follow-up of the enigmatic and short lived gamma-ray bursts. The drive system for the telescope has to meet two basic demands: (1) During normal observations, the 72-ton telescope has to be positioned accurately, and has to track a given sky position with high precision at a typical rotational speed in the order of one revolution per day. (2) For successfully observing GRB prompt emission and afterglows, it has to be powerful enough to position to an arbitrary point on the sky within a few ten seconds and commence normal tracking immediately thereafter. To meet these requirements, the implementation and realization of the drive system relies strongly on standard industry components to ensure robustness and reliability. In this paper, we describe the mechanical setup, the drive control and the calibration of the pointing, as well as present measurements of the accuracy of the system. We show that the drive system is mechanically able to operate the motors with an accuracy even better than the feedback values from the axes. In the context of future projects, envisaging telescope arrays comprising about 100 individual instruments, the robustness and scalability of the concept is emphasized.
T. Bretz; D. Dorner; R. M. Wagner; P. Sawallisch
Flattening Scientific CCD Imaging Data with a Dome Flat Field System
We describe the flattening of scientific CCD imaging data using a dome flat field system. The system uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) to illuminate a carefully constructed dome flat field screen. LEDs have several advantages over more traditional illumination sources: they are available in a wide range of output wavelengths, are inexpensive, have a very long source lifetime, and are straightforward to control digitally. The circular dome screen is made of a material with Lambertian scattering properties that efficiently reflects light of a wide range of wavelengths and incident angles. We compare flat fields obtained using this new system with two types of traditionally-constructed flat fields: twilight sky flats and nighttime sky flats. Using photometric standard stars as illumination sources, we test the quality of each flat field by applying it to a set of standard star observations. We find that the dome flat field system produces flat fields that are superior to twilight or nighttime sky flats, particularly for photometric calibration. We note that a ratio of the twilight sky flat to the nighttime sky flat is flat to within the expected uncertainty; but since both of these flat fields are inferior to the dome flat, this common test is not an appropriate metric for testing a flat field. Rather, the only feasible and correct method for determining the appropriateness of a flat field is to use standard stars to measure the reproducibility of known magnitudes across the detector.
J. L. Marshall; D. L. DePoy
A New Three-Dimensional Visualization System for Combining Aircraft and Radar Data and Its Application to RICO Observations
The analysis of diverse datasets from meteorological field campaigns often involves the use of separate 1D or combined 2D plots from various applications, making the determination of spatial and temporal relationships and correlations among these ...
Dan K. Arthur; Sonia Lasher-Trapp; Ayman Abdel-Haleem; Nicholas Klosterman; David S. Ebert
Modeling and optimization of a combined cycle Stirling-ORC system and design of an integrated microchannel Stirling heat rejector.
??The performance of a combined Stirling-ORC power cycle is evaluated, and an integrated microchannel heat exchanger is designed as an annular cold-side heat rejector for� (more)
[No author
Emerging Technologies in Mass Spectrometry Imaging
Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) as an analytical tool for bio-molecular and bio-medical research targets, accurate compound localization and identification. In terms of dedicated instrumentation, this translates into the demand for more detail in the image dimension (spatial resolution) and in the spectral dimension (mass resolution and accuracy), preferably combined in one instrument. At the same time, large area biological tissue samples require fast acquisition schemes, instrument automation and a robust data infrastructure. This review discusses the analytical capabilities of an "ideal" MSI instrument for bio-molecular and bio-medical molecular imaging. The analytical attributes of such an ideal system are contrasted with technological and methodological challenges in MSI. In particular, innovative instrumentation for high spatial resolution imaging in combination with high sample throughput is discussed. Detector technology that targets various shortcomings of conventional imaging detector systems is hig...
Jungmann, Julia H
A flexible high-rate USB2 data acquisition system for PET and SPECT imaging
A new flexible data acquisition system has been developed to instrument gamma-ray imaging detectors designed by the Jefferson Lab Detector and Imaging Group. Hardware consists of 16-channel data acquisition modules installed on USB2 carrier boards. Carriers have been designed to accept one, two, and four modules. Application trigger rate and channel density determines the number of acquisition boards and readout computers used. Each channel has an independent trigger, gated integrator and a 2.5 MHz 12-bit ADC. Each module has an FPGA for analog control and signal processing. Processing includes a 5 ns 40-bit trigger time stamp and programmable triggering, gating, ADC timing, offset and gain correction, charge and pulse-width discrimination, sparsification, event counting, and event assembly. The carrier manages global triggering and transfers module data to a USB buffer. High-granularity time-stamped triggering is suitable for modular detectors. Time stamped events permit dynamic studies, complex offline event assembly, and high-rate distributed data acquisition. A sustained USB data rate of 20 Mbytes/s, a sustained trigger rate of 300 kHz for 32 channels, and a peak trigger rate of 2.5 MHz to FIFO memory were achieved. Different trigger, gating, processing, and event assembly techniques were explored. Target applications include >100 kHz coincidence rate PET detectors, dynamic SPECT detectors, miniature and portable gamma detectors for small-animal and clinical use.
J. Proffitt, W. Hammond, S. Majewski, V. Popov, R.R. Raylman, A.G. Weisenberger, R. Wojcik
On the design and analysis of the software and data architecture of ROI-based image retrieval system
Content-based Image Retrieval (CBIR) has been widely used in many areas such as crime prevention, the military, web searching, intellectual property, etc. The technology related to CBIR has been continuously developed, such as multi-dimensional indexing and features extraction algorithms. However, some issues still need to be resolved such as high-level semantics of images, human in the loop, etc. The application of CBIR in many professional areas is still under development. Thus further study and research are necessary and important to address those problems. In ophthalmology, physicians often need to compare retinal images in their collections with common properties for a specific purpose, or find similar Region of Interests (ROI) in different images, which is very useful as reference for current diagnostic. Although much effort in the pattern recognition has been explored and shown to be helpful, specific application for retinal images retrieval is still in its infancy. In this thesis, we propose a ROI (Region of Interests)-based image retrieval system, which supports finding similar ROI in the database based on the ROI content. After studying some CBIR techniques and reviewing several CBIR systems we proposed a Multi-layered 2D Matrix Indexing Scheme, which allows for retrieval of the similar ROIs from the database. The prototype architecture is presented and the data structure of the software system is discussed.
Bu, Junjie
The Development of a Parameterized Scatter Removal Algorithm for Nuclear Materials Identification System Imaging
This dissertation presents a novel method for removing scattering effects from Nuclear Materials Identification System (NMIS) imaging. The NMIS uses fast neutron radiography to generate images of the internal structure of objects non-intrusively. If the correct attenuation through the object is measured, the positions and macroscopic cross-sections of features inside the object can be determined. The cross sections can then be used to identify the materials and a 3D map of the interior of the object can be reconstructed. Unfortunately, the measured attenuation values are always too low because scattered neutrons contribute to the unattenuated neutron signal. Previous efforts to remove the scatter from NMIS imaging have focused on minimizing the fraction of scattered neutrons which are misidentified as directly transmitted by electronically collimating and time tagging the source neutrons. The parameterized scatter removal algorithm (PSRA) approaches the problem from an entirely new direction by using Monte Carlo simulations to estimate the point scatter functions (PScFs) produced by neutrons scattering in the object. PScFs have been used to remove scattering successfully in other applications, but only with simple 2D detector models. This work represents the first time PScFs have ever been applied to an imaging detector geometry as complicated as the NMIS. By fitting the PScFs using a Gaussian function, they can be parameterized and the proper scatter for a given problem can be removed without the need for rerunning the simulations each time. In order to model the PScFs, an entirely new method for simulating NMIS measurements was developed for this work. The development of the new models and the codes required to simulate them are presented in detail. The PSRA was used on several simulated and experimental measurements and chi-squared goodness of fit tests were used to compare the corrected values to the ideal values that would be expected with no scattering. Using the PSRA resulted in an improvement of the chi-squared test by a factor of 60 or more when applied to simple homogeneous objects.
Grogan, Brandon R [ORNL
Combined cycle and waste heat recovery power systems based on a novel thermodynamic energy cycle utilizing low-temperature heat for power generation
A new thermodynamic energy cycle has been developed, using a multicomponent working agent. Condensation is supplemented with absorption, following expansion in the turbine. Several combined power systems based on this cycle have been designed and cost-estimated. Efficiencies of these new systems are 1.35 to 1.5 times higher than the best Rankine Cycle system, at the same border conditions. Investment cost per unit of power output is about two-thirds of the cost of a comparable Rankine Cycle system. Results make cogeneration economically attractive at current energy prices. The first experimental installation is planned by Fayette Manufacturing Company and Detroit Diesel Allison Division of General Motors.
Point sensitive NMR imaging system using a magnetic field configuration with a spatial minimum
A point-sensitive NMR imaging system (10) in which a main solenoid coil (11) produces a relatively strong and substantially uniform magnetic field and a pair of perturbing coils (PZ1 and PZ2) powered by current in the same direction superimposes a pair of relatively weak perturbing fields on the main field to produce a resultant point of minimum field strength at a desired location in a direction along the Z-axis. Two other pairs of perturbing coils (PX1, PX2; PY1, PY2) superimpose relatively weak field gradients on the main field in directions along the X- and Y-axes to locate the minimum field point at a desired location in a plane normal to the Z-axes. An RF generator (22) irradiates a tissue specimen in the field with radio frequency energy so that desired nuclei in a small volume at the point of minimum field strength will resonate.
Eberhard, Philippe H. (El Cerrito, CA)
CLASS B0445+123: a new two-image gravitational lens system
A new two-image gravitational lens system has been discovered as a result of the Cosmic Lens All-Sky Survey (CLASS). Radio observations with the VLA, MERLIN and the VLBA at increasingly higher resolutions all show two components with a flux density ratio of ~7:1 and a separation of 1.34". Both components are compact and have the same spectral index. Followup observations made with the VLA at 8.4 GHz show evidence of a feature to the south-east of the brighter component and a corresponding extension of the weaker component to the north-west. Optical observations with the WHT show ~1.7" extended emission aligned in approximately the same direction as the separation between the radio components with an R-band magnitude of 21.8 +/- 0.4.
M. K. Argo; N. J. Jackson; I. W. A. Browne; T. York; J. P. McKean; A. D. Biggs; R. D. Blandford; A. G. de Bruyn; K. H. Chae; C. D. Fassnacht; L. V. E. Koopmans; D. R. Marlow; S. T. Myers; M. Norbury; T. J. Pearson; P. M. Phillips; A. C. S. Readhead; D. Rusin; P. N. Wilkinson
Model of the Feed Water System Including a Generic Model of the Deaerator for a Full Scope Combined Cycle Power Plant Simulator
This paper presents the modelling of the Feed water System and an original generic model for closed vessels containing a fluid in two phases at equilibrium conditions with an incondensable gas. The model was used for the deaerator of a Combined Cycle ... Keywords: deaerator, pressurised vessels model, feedwater simulation
Edgardo J. Roldan-Villasana; Ana K. Vazquez
Experimental Study on Operating Characteristic of the System of Ground Source Heat Pump Combined with Floor Radiant Heating of Capillary Tube
At first, the article presented particularly the working theory of the system of ground source heat pump combined with floor radiant heating of capillary tube, the characteristic of soil layers and the arrangement form of capillary tube mat and the floor ... Keywords: Ground source heat pump, Capillary tube, Radiant heating, Characteristic, Experiment
Yunzhun Fu; Cai Yingling; Jing Li; Yeyu Wang
Fluorescence enhanced optical tomography on breast phantoms with measurements using a gain modulated intensified CCD imaging system
Fluorescence-enhanced optical imaging using near-infrared (NIR) light developed for in-vivo molecular targeting and reporting of cancer provides promising opportunities for diagnostic imaging. However, prior to the administration of unproven contrast agents, the benefits of fluorescence-enhanced optical imaging must be assessed in feasibility phantom studies. A novel intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) imaging system has been developed to perform 3-D fluorescence tomographic imaging in the frequency-domain using near-infrared contrast agents. This study is unique since it (i) employs a large tissue-mimicking phantom (~1087 cc), which is shaped and sized to resemble a female breast and part of the extended chest wall region, and (ii) enables rapid data acquisition in the frequency-domain by using a gain-modulated ICCD camera. Diagnostic 3-D fluorescence-enhanced optical tomography is demonstrated using 0.5-1 cc single and multiple targets contrasted from their surrounding by ??M concentrations of Indocyanine green (ICG) in the breast-shaped phantom (10 cm diameter), under varying conditions of target-to-background absorption contrast ratios (1:0 and 100:1) and target depths (up to 3 cm deep). Boundary surface fluorescence measurements of referenced amplitude and phase shift were used along with the coupled diffusion equation of light propagation in order to perform 3-D image reconstructions using the approximate extended Kalman filter (AEKF) algorithm, and hence differentiate the target from the background based on fluorescent optical contrast. Detection of single and multiple targets is demonstrated under various conditions of target depths (up to 2 cm deep), absorption optical contrast ratio (1:0 and 100:1), target volumes (0.5-1 cc), and multiple targets (up to three 0.5 cc targets). The feasibility of 3-D image reconstructions from simultaneous multiple point excitation sources are presented. Preliminary lifetime imaging studies with 1:2 and 2:1 optical contrast in fluorescence lifetime of the contrast agents is also demonstrated. The specificity of the optical imager is further assessed from homogeneous phantom studies containing no fluorescently contrasted targets. While nuclear imaging currently provides clinical diagnostic opportunities using radioactive tracers, molecular targeting of tumors using non-ionizing NIR contrast agents tomographically imaged using the frequency-domain ICCD imaging system could possibly become a new method of diagnostic imaging.
Godavarty, Anuradha
Combined thermal storage pond and dry cooling tower waste heat rejection system for solar-thermal steam-electric power plants. Final report
The thermal performance and economics of the combined thermal storage pond and dry cooling tower waste heat rejection system concept for solar-thermal steam-electric plants have been evaluated. Based on the computer simulation of the operation of southwest-sited solar-thermal plants, it has been determined that the combined pond-tower concept has significant cost and performance advantages over conventional dry cooling systems. Use of a thermal storage pond as a component of the dry cooling system allows a significant reduction in the required dry cooling heat exchange capacity and the associated parasitic power consumption. Importantly, it has been concluded that the combined pond-tower dry cooling system concept can be employed to economically maintain steam condensing temperatures at levels normally achieved with conventional evaporative cooling systems. An evaluation of alternative thermal storage pond design concepts has revealed that a stratified vertical-flow cut-and-fill reservoir with conventional membrane lining and covering would yield the best overall system performance at the least cost.
Guyer, E.C.; Bourne, J.G.; Brownell, D.L.; Rose, R.M.
Development of a portable x-ray computed tomographic imaging system for drill-site investigation of recovered core
A portable x-ray computed tomography (CT) system was constructed for imaging core at drill sites. Performing drill-site-based x-ray scanning and CT analysis permits rapid evaluation of core properties (such as density, lithologic structure, and macroporosity distribution) and allows for real-time decision making for additional core-handling procedures. Because of the speed with which scanning is performed, systematic imaging and electronic cataloging of all retrieved core is feasible. Innovations (such as a novel clamshell shielding arrangement integrated with system interlocks) permit safe operation of the x-ray system in a busy core handling area. The minimization of the volume encapsulated with shielding reduces the overall system weight and facilitates instrument portability. The x-ray system as originally fabricated had a 110 kV x-ray source with a fixed 300-micron focal spot size. A 15 cm image intensifier with a cesium iodide phosphor input screen was coupled to a CCD for image capture. The CT system has since been modified with a 130 kV micro-focal x-ray source. With the x-ray system's variable focal spot size, high-resolution studies (10-micron resolution) can be performed on core plugs and coarser (100-micron resolution) images can be acquired of whole drill cores. The development of an aluminum compensator has significantly improved the dynamic range and accuracy of the system. An x-ray filter has also been incorporated, permitting rapid acquisition of multi-energy scans for more quantitative analysis of sample mineralogy. The x-ray CT system has operated reliably under extreme field conditions, which have varied from shipboard to arctic.
Freifeld, Barry M.; Kneafsey, Timothy J.; Tomutsa, Liviu; Pruess, Jacob
solar thermal systems, which can be used for domestic hot water, space heatingsolar thermal systems, which can be used for domestic hot water, space heating
An image processing system for the monitoring of special nuclear material and personnel
An important aspect of insider protection in production facilities is the monitoring of the movement of special nuclear material (SNM) and personnel. One system developed at Sandia National Labs for this purpose is the Personnel and Material Tracking System (PAMTRAK). PAMTRAK can intelligently integrate different sensor technologies and the security requirements of a facility to provide a unique capability in monitoring and tracking SNM and personnel. Currently many sensor technologies are used to track the location of personnel and SNM inside a production facility. These technologies are generally intrusive; they require special badges be worn by personnel, special tags be connected to material, and special detection devices be mounted in the area. Video technology, however, is non-intrusive because it does not require that personnel wear special badges or that special tags be attached to SNM. Sandia has developed a video-based image processing system consisting of three major components: the Material Monitoring-Subsystem (MMS), the Personnel Tracking Subsystem (PTS) and the Item Recognition Subsystem (IRS). The basic function of the MMS is to detect movements of SNM, that occur in user-defined regions of interest (ROI) from multiple cameras; these ROI can be of any shape and size. The purpose of the PTS is to track location of personnel in an area using multiple cameras. It can also be used to implement the two-person rule or to detect unauthorized personnel in a restricted area. Finally, the IRS can be used for the recognition and inventory of SNM in a working area. It can also generate a log record on the status of each SNM. Currently the MMS is integrated with PAMTRAK to complement other monitoring technologies in the system. The paper will discuss the system components and their implementations, and describe current enhancements as well as future work.
Thai, T.; Carlson, J.; Urenda, D.; Cooley, T.
IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON FUZZY SYSTEMS, VOL. 11, NO. 6, DECEMBER 2003 729 "Fuzzy" Versus "Nonfuzzy" in Combining Classifiers
connectives, per- ceived sometimes as trademarks of fuzzy set theory, are already in use: minimum, maximumBoost ( classifiers), and in Fig. 8(b), the bar graph for classifiers. In both experiments, fuzzy combiners were found, "Multiple network fusion using fuzzy logic," IEEE Trans. Neural Networks, vol. 6, pp. 497501, Mar. 1995
Kuncheva, Ludmila I.
Reduction of NO/sub x/ through staged combustion in combined cycle supplemental boilers. Volume I. Systems optimization analyses. Final report
An investigation directed to control of emissions from supplemental-fired combined cycles with the use of staged combustion in the steam generating portion of the system is discussed. A combined cycle, as considered in this report, is the assembly of any number of gas turbines, steam generators, and steam turbines for electric power generation in which the exhaust of the gas turbines is passed through the steam generators. A supplementary-fired combined cycle employs combustion of fuel in the gas turbine exhaust to increase temperatures in the steam system. Staged combustion is achieved by the separation of the exhaust from the gas turbines into two streams prior to entering the steam generator with provisions for primary combustion of fuel in one stream with a deficiency of air. Combustion is completed in a secondary stage by mixing the unfired stream into the products of the fired stream. The use of staged combustion provides conditions favorable for the occurrence of chemical reactions that result in a reduction of mass flow of nitric oxide (NO) present in the gas turbine exhaust. Volume I is concerned with the engineering analysis of combined cycle performance and NO/sub x/ reduction potential. (GRA)
Framework combining static optimization, dynamic scheduling and decision analysis applicable to complex primary HVAC&R systems.
??The primary objective of this work is to propose a general and computationally efficient methodology for dynamic scheduling and optimal control of primary HVAC&R systems� (more)
Jiang, Wei
Dynamic simulation of a solar-driven carbon dioxide transcritical power system for small scale combined heat and power production
Carbon dioxide is an environmental benign natural working fluid and has been proposed as a working media for a solar-driven power system. In the current work, the dynamic performance of a small scale solar-driven carbon dioxide power system is analyzed by dynamic simulation tool TRNSYS 16 and Engineering Equation Solver (EES) using co-solving technique. Both daily performance and yearly performance of the proposed system have been simulated. Different system operating parameters, which will influence the system performance, have been discussed. Under the Swedish climatic condition, the maximum daily power production is about 12 kW h and the maximum monthly power production is about 215 kW h with the proposed system working conditions. Besides the power being produced, the system can also produce about 10 times much thermal energy, which can be used for space heating, domestic hot water supply or driving absorption chillers. The simulation results show that the proposed system is a promising and environmental benign alternative for conventional low-grade heat source utilization system. (author)
Chen, Y.; Lundqvist, Per [Div. of Applied Thermodynamics and Refrigeration, Department of Energy Technology, Royal Institute of Technology, SE-100 44 Stockholm (Sweden); Pridasawas, Wimolsiri [King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, Dept. of Chemical Engineering, Bangkok (Thailand)
Method for heavy-water extraction from non-electrolytic hydrogen streams using a combined electrolysis and catalytic exchange system
A method is disclosed for heavy-water extraction from nonelectrolytic hydrogen streams using a modified combined electrolysis and catalytic exchange-heavy water process (Cecehwp). The method comprises contacting feed water in a catalyst column with hydrogen gas originating partly from such nonelectrolytic hydrogen stream and partly from an electrolytic hydrogen stream so as to enrich the feed water with deuterium extracted from both the non-electrolytic and electrolytic hydrogen gas, and passing the deuterium enriched water to an electrolyzer wherein the electrolytic hydrogen gas is generated and then fed through the catalyst column.
Butler, J.P.; Hammerli, M.; Leroy, R.L.
Development and Testing of an Air Fluorescence Imaging System for the Detection of Radiological Contamination
Detection of radionuclides emitting short-range radiation, such as {alpha} and low-energy {beta} particles, has always presented a challenge, particularly when such radionuclides are dispersed over a wide area. In this situation, conventional detection methods require the area of interest to be surveyed using a fragile probe at very close range--a slow, error-prone, and potentially dangerous process that may take many hours for a single room. The instrument under development uses a novel approach by imaging radiation-induced fluorescence in the air surrounding a contaminated area, rather than detecting the radiation directly. A robust and portable system has been designed and built that will allow contaminated areas to be rapidly detected and delineated. The detector incorporates position-sensitive photo-multiplier tubes, UV filters, a fast electronic shutter and an aspherical phase mask that significantly increases the depth-of-field. Preliminary tests have been conducted using sealed {sup 241}Am sources of varying activities and surface areas. The details of the instrument design will be described and the results of recent testing will be presented.
Inrig, Elizabeth [Defence R and D Canada - Ottawa, 3701 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario (Canada); Koslowsky, Vern; Andrews, Bob; Dick, Michael; Forget, Patrick; Ing, Harry [Bubble Technology Industries, Box 100, Chalk River, Ontario (Canada); Hugron, Roger [Director General Nuclear Safety, 101 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, Ontario (Canada); Wong, Larry [Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, 3484 Limebank Road, Ottawa, Ontario (Canada)
Search Combinators
The ability to model search in a constraint solver can be an essential asset for solving combinatorial problems. However, existing infrastructure for defining search heuristics is often inadequate. Either modeling capabilities are extremely limited or users are faced with a general-purpose programming language whose features are not tailored towards writing search heuristics. As a result, major improvements in performance may remain unexplored. This article introduces search combinators, a lightweight and solver-independent method that bridges the gap between a conceptually simple modeling language for search (high-level, functional and naturally compositional) and an efficient implementation (low-level, imperative and highly non-modular). By allowing the user to define application-tailored search strategies from a small set of primitives, search combinators effectively provide a rich domain-specific language (DSL) for modeling search to the user. Remarkably, this DSL comes at a low implementation cost to the...
Schrijvers, Tom; Wuille, Pieter; Samulowitz, Horst; Stuckey, Peter J
Visual Comfort Analysis of Innovative Interior and Exterior Shading Systems for Commercial Buildings using High Resolution Luminance Images
The objective of this study was to explore how calibrated high dynamic range (HDR) images (luminance maps) acquired in real world daylit environments can be used to characterize, evaluate, and compare visual comfort conditions of innovative facade shading and light-redirecting systems. Detailed (1536 x 1536 pixel) luminance maps were time-lapse acquired from two view positions in an unoccupied full scale testbed facility. These maps were analyzed using existing visual comfort metrics to quantify how innovative interior and exterior shading systems compare to conventional systems under real sun and sky conditions over a solstice-to-solstice test interval. The results provide a case study in the challenges and potential of methods of visualizing, evaluating and summarizing daily and seasonal variation of visual comfort conditions computed from large sets of image data.
Konis, Kyle; Lee, Eleanor; Clear, Robert
Origin of Pacific Multidecadal Variability in Community Climate System Model, Version 3 (CCSM3): A Combined Statistical and Dynamical Assessment
Observations indicate that Pacific multidecadal variability (PMV) is a basinwide phenomenon with robust tropical�extratropical linkage, though its genesis remains the topic of much debate. In this study, the PMV in the Community Climate System ...
Yafang Zhong; Zhengyu Liu; R. Jacob
Hydrogen-or-Fossil-Combustion Nuclear Combined-Cycle Systems for Base- and Peak-Load Electricity Production
A combined-cycle power plant is described that uses (1) heat from a high-temperature nuclear reactor to meet base-load electrical demands and (2) heat from the same high-temperature reactor and burning natural gas, jet fuel, or hydrogen to meet peak-load electrical demands. For base-load electricity production, fresh air is compressed; then flows through a heat exchanger, where it is heated to between 700 and 900 C by heat provided by a high-temperature nuclear reactor via an intermediate heat-transport loop; and finally exits through a high-temperature gas turbine to produce electricity. The hot exhaust from the Brayton-cycle gas turbine is then fed to a heat recovery steam generator that provides steam to a steam turbine for added electrical power production. To meet peak electricity demand, the air is first compressed and then heated with the heat from a high-temperature reactor. Natural gas, jet fuel, or hydrogen is then injected into the hot air in a combustion chamber, combusts, and heats the air to 1300 C-the operating conditions for a standard natural-gas-fired combined-cycle plant. The hot gas then flows through a gas turbine and a heat recovery steam generator before being sent to the exhaust stack. The higher temperatures increase the plant efficiency and power output. If hydrogen is used, it can be produced at night using energy from the nuclear reactor and stored until needed. With hydrogen serving as the auxiliary fuel for peak power production, the electricity output to the electric grid can vary from zero (i.e., when hydrogen is being produced) to the maximum peak power while the nuclear reactor operates at constant load. Because nuclear heat raises air temperatures above the auto-ignition temperatures of the various fuels and powers the air compressor, the power output can be varied rapidly (compared with the capabilities of fossil-fired turbines) to meet spinning reserve requirements and stabilize the electric grid. This combined cycle uses the unique characteristics of high-temperature reactors (T>700 C) to produce electricity for premium electric markets whose demands can not be met by other types of nuclear reactors. It may also make the use of nuclear reactors economically feasible in smaller electrical grids, such as those found in many developing countries. The ability to rapidly vary power output can be used to stabilize electric grid performance-a particularly important need in small electrical grids.
Forsberg, Charles W [ORNL; Conklin, Jim [ORNL
Improvement of xenon purification system using a combination of a pulse tube refrigerator and a coaxial heat exchanger
We have developed a compact cryogenic system with a pulse tube refrigerator and a coaxial heat exchanger. This liquefaction-purification system not only saves the cooling power used to reach high gaseous recirculation rate, but also reduces the impurity level with high speed. The heat exchanger operates with an efficiency of 99%, which indicates the possibility for fast xenon gas recirculation in a highpressurized large-scale xenon storage with much less thermal losses.
Chen, Wan-Ting; Cussonneau, J -P; Donnard, J; Duval, S; Lemaire, O; Calloch, M Le; Ray, P Le; Mohamad-Hadi, A -F; Morteau, E; Oger, T; Scotto-Lavina, L; Stutzmann, J -S; Thers, D; Briend, P; Haruyama, T; Mihara, S; Tauchi, T
A combustion-monitoring system with 3-D temperature reconstruction based on flame-image processing technique
Based on a flame-image processing technology, a real-time combustion-monitoring, system with 3-D temperature reconstruction and visualization installed in a coal-fired furnace of a power plant was reported. A dozen flame detectors with charge-couple-device cameras were mounted along the height of the furnace to capture multiple digital flame images. A radiation energy signal (RES) was obtained from the flame images according to Wien's law of radiation. A series of in situ experiments have been done, and the results showed that the flame temperature distribution and the RES are sensitive to change in the combustion of the boiler and can be used to improve the combustion control in practical application.
Luo, Z.X.; Zhou, H.C. [Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan (China). School of Energy & Power Engineering
Western Area Power Administration combined power system financial statements September 30, 1994 and 1993 and management overview and performance measurements
The attached report presents the results of the independent certified public accountant`s audit of the Department of Energy`s Western Area Power Administration`s (Western) combined financial statements as of September 30, 1994. The auditors have expressed an unqualified opinion on Western`s 1994 statements. Their reports on Western`s internal control structure and on compliance with laws and regulations are also provided. Western was established in December 1977, and has the responsibility for the Federal electric power marketing and transmission functions in 15 central and western states. Western markets power, as required by existing law, at the lowest possible rates consistent with sound business principles to recover the costs of operation and capital invested in power facilities.
Marwick, P.
Analysis of community solar systems for combined space and domestic hot water heating using annual cycle thermal energy storage
A simplified design procedure is examined for estimating the storage capacity and collector area for annual-cycle-storage, community solar heating systems in which 100% of the annual space heating energy demand is provided from the solar source for the typical meteorological year. Hourly computer simulations of the performance of these systems were carried out for 10 cities in the United States for 3 different building types and 4 community sizes. These permitted the use of design values for evaluation of a more simplified system sizing method. Results of this study show a strong correlation between annual collector efficiency and two major, location-specific, annual weather parameters: the mean air temperature during daylignt hours and the total global insolation on the collector surface. Storage capacity correlates well with the net winter load, which is a measure of the seasonal variation in the total load, a correlation which appears to be independent of collector type.
Hooper, F.C.; McClenahan, J.D.; Cook, J.D.; Baylin, F.; Monte, R.; Sillman, S.
A Real-Time Imaging System for Stereo Atomic Microscopy at SPring-8's BL25SU
We have developed a real-time photoelectron angular distribution (PEAD) and Auger-electron angular distribution (AEAD) imaging system at SPring-8 BL25SU, Japan. In addition, a real-time imaging system for circular dichroism (CD) studies of PEAD/AEAD has been newly developed. Two PEAD images recorded with left- and right-circularly polarized light can be regarded as a stereo image of the atomic arrangement. A two-dimensional display type mirror analyzer (DIANA) has been installed at the beamline, making it possible to record PEAD/AEAD patterns with an acceptance angle of {+-}60 deg. in real-time. The twin-helical undulators at BL25SU enable helicity switching of the circularly polarized light at 10Hz, 1Hz or 0.1Hz. In order to realize real-time measurements of the CD of the PEAD/AEAD, the CCD camera must be synchronized to the switching frequency. The VME computer that controls the ID is connected to the measurement computer with two BNC cables, and the helicity information is sent using TTL signals. For maximum flexibility, rather than using a hardware shutter synchronizing with the TTL signal we have developed software to synchronize the CCD shutter with the TTL signal. We have succeeded in synchronizing the CCD camera in both the 1Hz and 0.1Hz modes.
Matsushita, Tomohiro; Guo, Fang Zhun; Muro, Takayuki [JASRI/SPring-8, Kouto 1-1-1, Sayo-cho, Sayo-gun, Hyogo, 679-5198 (Japan); Matsui, Fumihiko; Daimon, Hiroshi [Graduate School of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST), 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192 (Japan)
Apparatus and methods of reheating gas turbine cooling steam and high pressure steam turbine exhaust in a combined cycle power generating system
In a combined cycle system having a multi-pressure heat recovery steam generator, a gas turbine and steam turbine, steam for cooling gas turbine components is supplied from the intermediate pressure section of the heat recovery steam generator supplemented by a portion of the steam exhausting from the HP section of the steam turbine, steam from the gas turbine cooling cycle and the exhaust from the HP section of the steam turbine are combined for flow through a reheat section of the HRSG. The reheated steam is supplied to the IP section inlet of the steam turbine. Thus, where gas turbine cooling steam temperature is lower than optimum, a net improvement in performance is achieved by flowing the cooling steam exhausting from the gas turbine and the exhaust steam from the high pressure section of the steam turbine in series through the reheater of the HRSG for applying steam at optimum temperature to the IP section of the steam turbine.
Tomlinson, Leroy Omar (Niskayuna, NY); Smith, Raub Warfield (Ballston Lake, NY)
Experiments of Sulfur Removal in 1MW Poly-Generation System with Partial Gasification and Combustion Combined
An experimental study on sulfur release and adsorption during coal partial gasification and combustion is conducted in a 1MW circulating fluidized bed (CFB) poly-generation system. Limestone is added to gasifier as a sorbent of sulfur produced, where ... Keywords: partial gasification, poly-generation, recycled coal gas, limestone, desulfurization
Qin Hong; Wang Qing; Wang Qinhui; Luo Zhongyang
Understanding the Impact of Large-Scale Penetration of Micro Combined Heat & Power Technologies within Energy Systems
increase with the incorporation of additional features such as a hot water storage unit integrated ........................................................................................................ 30 FIGURE 2.2.4: FUEL CELL BASIC OPERATION............................................................................................................ 32 FIGURE 3.1.1: RESIDENTIAL HEATING & ELECTRIC SYSTEM USING A MICRO-CHP UNIT UNDER A HOT
Rudnick, Hugh
Western Area Power Administration combined power system financial statements, September 30, 1996 and 1995 (with independent auditors` report thereon)
This report presents the results of the independent certified public accountants` audit of the Department of Energy`s Western Area Power Administration`s (Western) combined financial statements as of September 30, 1996. The auditors have expressed an unqualified opinion on the 1996 statements. The auditors` report on Western`s internal control structure disclosed two new reportable conditions and discussed the status of an unresolved condition from prior years. The new conditions involved the write-off of aging accounts receivable and the understatement of interest expense for inactive construction work orders. These reportable conditions are not considered to be material weaknesses. Western concurred with the audit recommendations and is responsible for necessary corrective actions. The auditors also considered the overview and performance measure data for completeness and material consistency with the basic financial statements as noted in the internal control report. The report also disclosed an additional reportable condition directed to the Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation) which is not considered to be a material weakness. Reclamation concurred with the audit recommendation and is responsible for necessary corrective action. The auditors` report on Western`s compliance with laws and regulations disclosed two new instances of noncompliance involving interest charges on all construction costs funded with Federal appropriations and other capitalized costs. The report also discussed the status of one instance of noncompliance from prior years. Western provided concurrence and corrective action plans for all of these instances of noncompliance.
CMOS Digital Imager Design from a System-on-a-chip Perspective
Due to substantial mixed analog-digital circuitintegration in one chip, CMOS digital imager cannot beconsidered only as a photoelectric transducer. In thispaper, we have identified timing and circuit layoutconsiderations that are critical for implementing ...
Bedabrata Pain; Bruce Hancock; Thomas Cunningham; Guang Yang; Suresh Seshadri; Julie Heynssens; Chris Wrigley
High-Resolution Imaging of Rain Systems with the Advanced Microwave Precipitation Radiometer
An Advanced Microwave Precipitation Radiometer (AMPR) has been developed and flown in the NASA ER-2 high-altitude aircraft for imaging various atmospheric and surface processes, primarily the internal structure of rain clouds. The AMPR is a ...
Roy W. Spencer; Robbie E. Hood; Frank J. Lafontaine; Eric A. Smith; Robert Platt; Joe Galliano; Vanessa L. Griffin; Elena Lobl
Three Dimensional Molecular Imaging for Lignocellulosic Materials
components sequestered in the rigid cell walls of plants. A detailed chemical and structural understanding of this pre-enzymatic processing in space and time was the focus of this program. We worked to develop new imaging strategies that produce real-time molecular speciation information in situ; extract sub-surface information about the effects of processing; and follow the spatial and temporal characteristics of the molecular species in the matrix and correlate this complex profile with saccharification. Spatially correlated SIMS and Raman imaging were used to provide high quality, high resolution subcellular images of Miscanthus cross sections. Furthermore, the combination of information from the mass spectrometry and Raman scattering allows specific chemical assignments of observed structures, difficult to assign from either imaging approach alone and lays the foundation for subsequent heterocorrelated imaging experiments targeted at more challenging biological systems, such as the interacting plant-microbe systems relevant to the rhizosphere.
Bohn, Paul W.; Sweedler, Jonathan V.
Southwestern Federal Power System combined financial statements and supplemental schedules (with independent auditors` reports thereon) for the years ended September 30, 1996 and 1995
This report presents the results of the independent certified public accountants` audit of the Southwestern Federal Power System`s (SWFPS) combined power system statement of assets, Federal investment and liabilities, and the related combined statements of revenues, expenses and accumulated net revenues, and cash flows. The 1996 financial statement audit was made under the provisions of the Inspector General Act (5 U.S.C. App.), as amended, the Government Management Reform Act (31 U.S.C. 3515), and Office of Management and Budget implementing guidance. The auditors` work was conducted in accordance with generally accepted government auditing standards. To fulfill audit responsibilities, the Office of Inspector General contracted with the independent public accounting firm of KPMG Peak Marwick LLP (KPMG) to conduct the audit for them, subject to their review. The auditors` report on SWFP`s internal control structure disclosed a reportable condition directed to the Southwestern Power Administration concerning a delay in properly classifying the value of plant assets. The report also included two reportable conditions directed to the Army Corps of Engineers regarding the inconsistent calculation of depreciation expense and the misallocation of multipurpose costs. None of these reportable conditions were considered to be material weaknesses. The auditors` report on SWFP`s compliance with laws and regulations disclosed no new instances of noncompliance by Southwestern.
NERSC Image and Video Galleries
Archive User Science Images Home News & Publications Galleries Galleries 18.jpg NERSC Systems In this gallery view images and videos of the systems that undergird all NERSC...
Southwestern Federal Power System combined financial statements and supplemental schedules for the years ended September 30, 1994 and 1993
The Southwestern Federal Power System encompasses the operation of 24 hydroelectric power plants by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the marketing of power and energy from those plants by Southwestern Power Administration of the US Department of Energy. To integrate the operation of these hydroelectric generating plants and to transmit power from the dams to its customers, Southwestern Power Administration (Southwestern) maintains 2,220 kilometers (1,380 miles) of high-voltage transmission lines, 24 substations, and 46 microwave and VHF radio sites. Southwestern`s headquarters are in Tulsa, Oklahoma; its dispatch center is in Springfield, Missouri; and its maintenance crews are based in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in Gore and Tupelo, Oklahoma, and in Springfield, Missouri. Three divisions - Administration and Rates, Power Marketing and Delivery, and Maintenance - are responsible for meeting Southwestern`s mission. Twelve of the 24 generating plants are scheduled directly by Southwestern, and a total of 19 contribute to the interconnected system operations. Generation at the five remaining projects (Denison, Narrows, Sam Rayburn, Whitney, and Willis) is used to serve specific customer loads. At the end of fiscal year 1994, Southwestern marketed power and energy to 10 generation and transmission cooperatives, one distribution cooperative, three military installations, 41 municipal utilities, and three municipal utility joint-action agencies. One of the joint-action agencies has its own allocation of power from Southwestern; the other two serve 34 municipal utilities to whom Southwestern has allocated power. The total number of power allocation customers is 92. Additionally, excess energy is occasionally sold to non-allocation utilities. The primary purposes of Southwestern are to market Federally generated hydroelectric power, operate a reliable and safe transmission system, and encourage energy efficiency for the benefit of the region.
Similarity Retrieval of Trademark Images
The Artisan system retrieves abstract trademark images by shape similarity. It analyzes each image to characterize key shape components, grouping image regions into families that potentially mirror human image perception, and then derives characteristic ...
John P. Eakins; Jago M. Boardman; Margaret E. Graham
Energy and cost analysis of a solar-hydrogen combined heat and power system for remote power supply using a computer simulation
A simulation program, based on Visual Pascal, for sizing and techno-economic analysis of the performance of solar-hydrogen combined heat and power systems for remote applications is described. The accuracy of the submodels is checked by comparing the real performances of the system's components obtained from experimental measurements with model outputs. The use of the heat generated by the PEM fuel cell, and any unused excess hydrogen, is investigated for hot water production or space heating while the solar-hydrogen system is supplying electricity. A 5 kWh daily demand profile and the solar radiation profile of Melbourne have been used in a case study to investigate the typical techno-economic characteristics of the system to supply a remote household. The simulation shows that by harnessing both thermal load and excess hydrogen it is possible to increase the average yearly energy efficiency of the fuel cell in the solar-hydrogen system from just below 40% up to about 80% in both heat and power generation (based on the high heating value of hydrogen). The fuel cell in the system is conventionally sized to meet the peak of the demand profile. However, an economic optimisation analysis illustrates that installing a larger fuel cell could lead to up to a 15% reduction in the unit cost of the electricity to an average of just below 90 c/kWh over the assessment period of 30 years. Further, for an economically optimal size of the fuel cell, nearly a half the yearly energy demand for hot water of the remote household could be supplied by heat recovery from the fuel cell and utilising unused hydrogen in the exit stream. Such a system could then complement a conventional solar water heating system by providing the boosting energy (usually in the order of 40% of the total) normally obtained from gas or electricity. (author)
Shabani, Bahman; Andrews, John; Watkins, Simon [School of Aerospace Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, RMIT University, Melbourne (Australia)
Optimal design and control strategies for novel combined heat and power (CHP) fuel cell systems. Part II of II, case study results.
Innovative energy system optimization models are deployed to evaluate novel fuel cell system (FCS) operating strategies, not typically pursued by commercial industry. Most FCS today are installed according to a 'business-as-usual' approach: (1) stand-alone (unconnected to district heating networks and low-voltage electricity distribution lines), (2) not load following (not producing output equivalent to the instantaneous electrical or thermal demand of surrounding buildings), (3) employing a fairly fixed heat-to-power ratio (producing heat and electricity in a relatively constant ratio to each other), and (4) producing only electricity and no recoverable heat. By contrast, models discussed here consider novel approaches as well. Novel approaches include (1) networking (connecting FCSs to electrical and/or thermal networks), (2) load following (having FCSs produce only the instantaneous electricity or heat demanded by surrounding buildings), (3) employing a variable heat-to-power ratio (such that FCS can vary the ratio of heat and electricity they produce), (4) co-generation (combining the production of electricity and recoverable heat), (5) permutations of these together, and (6) permutations of these combined with more 'business-as-usual' approaches. The detailed assumptions and methods behind these models are described in Part I of this article pair.
Colella, Whitney G.
Optimizal design and control strategies for novel Combined Heat and Power (CHP) fuel cell systems. Part II of II, case study results.
Innovative energy system optimization models are deployed to evaluate novel fuel cell system (FCS) operating strategies, not typically pursued by commercial industry. Most FCS today are installed according to a 'business-as-usual' approach: (1) stand-alone (unconnected to district heating networks and low-voltage electricity distribution lines), (2) not load following (not producing output equivalent to the instantaneous electrical or thermal demand of surrounding buildings), (3) employing a fairly fixed heat-to-power ratio (producing heat and electricity in a relatively constant ratio to each other), and (4) producing only electricity and no recoverable heat. By contrast, models discussed here consider novel approaches as well. Novel approaches include (1) networking (connecting FCSs to electrical and/or thermal networks), (2) load following (having FCSs produce only the instantaneous electricity or heat demanded by surrounding buildings), (3) employing a variable heat-to-power ratio (such that FCS can vary the ratio of heat and electricity they produce), (4) co-generation (combining the production of electricity and recoverable heat), (5) permutations of these together, and (6) permutations of these combined with more 'business-as-usual' approaches.
A genetic-algorithm-based fusion system optimization for 3D image interpretation
Information fusion systems are complex systems with many parameters that must be adjusted to obtain interesting results. Generally applied in specialized domains such as military, medical and industrial areas, these systems must work in collaboration ...
Lionel Valet; Beatriz S. L. P. De Lima; Alexandre G. Evsukoff
Combined Heat and Power: A Technology Whose Time Has Come
grid, the few buildings equipped with Combined Heat andthe grid system. 29 Source: EPA Combined Heat and Powergrid system. 21 Alternatively, a CHP system collects the wasted heat
Ferraina, Steven
High spatial resolution X-ray and gamma ray imaging system using diffraction crystals
A method and a device for high spatial resolution imaging of a plurality of sources of x-ray and gamma-ray radiation are provided. The device comprises a plurality of arrays, with each array comprising a plurality of elements comprising a first collimator, a diffracting crystal, a second collimator, and a detector.
An open-source, FireWire camera-based, Labview-controlled image acquisition system for automated, dynamic pupillometry and blink detection
The dynamic, accurate measurement of pupil size is extremely valuable for studying a large number of neuronal functions and dysfunctions. Despite tremendous and well-documented progress in image processing techniques for estimating pupil parameters, ... Keywords: Blink detection, Image acquisition system, Pupillometry
John Kennedy Schettino De Souza, Marcos Antonio Da Silva Pinto, Pedro Gabrielle Vieira, Jerome Baron, Carlos Julio Tierra-Criollo
Anatomic and functional imaging of tagged molecules in animals
A novel functional imaging system for use in the imaging of unrestrained and non-anesthetized small animals or other subjects and a method for acquiring such images and further registering them with anatomical X-ray images previously or subsequently acquired. The apparatus comprises a combination of an IR laser profilometry system and gamma, PET and/or SPECT, imaging system, all mounted on a rotating gantry, that permits simultaneous acquisition of positional and orientational information and functional images of an unrestrained subject that are registered, i.e. integrated, using image processing software to produce a functional image of the subject without the use of restraints or anesthesia. The functional image thus obtained can be registered with a previously or subsequently obtained X-ray CT image of the subject. The use of the system described herein permits functional imaging of a subject in an unrestrained/non-anesthetized condition thereby reducing the stress on the subject and eliminating any potential interference with the functional testing that such stress might induce.
Weisenberger, Andrew G. (Yorktown, VA); Majewski, Stanislaw (Grafton, VA); Paulus, Michael J. (Knoxville, TN); Gleason, Shaun S. (Knoxville, VA)
NIST Image Gallery: Image Details
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image 150 DPI Image No 300 DPI Version. Title: Frequency Comb, Ultrafast Laser. ...
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image 150 DPI Image No 300 DPI Version. Title: Iron-Based Superconductors. Description ...
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image 150 DPI Image No 300 DPI Version. Title: Space Weather Forecasts. Description ...
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image 150 DPI Image No 300 DPI Version. Title: Organic Solar Power. Description ...
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Nanotechnology; Biotechnology/Health; Nanocrystals; Hwang. ...
Effect of thermal barrier coatings on the performance of steam- and water-cooled gas turbine: steam turbine combined cycle systems
An analytical study was made of the performance of air-, steam-, and water-cooled gas-turbine/steam-turbine combined-cycle systems with and without thermal-barrier coatings. For steam cooling, thermal-barrier coatings permit an increase in the turbine inlet temperature from 1205/sup 0/C to 1370/sup 0/C, resulting in an efficiency improvement of 1.9 percentage points. The maximum specific power improvement with thermal barriers is 32.4% when the turbine inlet temperature is increased from 1425/sup 0/C to 1675/sup 0/C and the airfoil temperature is kept the same. For water cooling, the maximum efficiency improvement is 2.2 percentage points at a turbine inlet temperature of 1683/sup 0/C and the maximum specific power improvement is 36.6% by increasing the turbine inlet temperature from 1425/sup 0/C to 1730/sup 0/C and keeping the airfoil temperatures the same. These improvements are greater than that obtained with combined cycles using air-cooling at a turbine inlet temperature of 1205/sup 0/C. The large temperature differences across the thermal barriers at these high temperatures, however, indicate that thermal stresses may present obstacles to the use of coatings at high turbine inlet temperatures.
Nainiger, J.J.
Development of a one-stop beam verification system using electronic portal imaging devices for routine quality assurance
In this study, a computer-based system for routine quality assurance (QA) of a linear accelerator (linac) was developed by using the dosimetric properties of an amorphous silicon electronic portal imaging device (EPID). An acrylic template phantom was designed such that it could be placed on the EPID and be aligned with the light field of the collimator. After irradiation, portal images obtained from the EPID were transferred in DICOM format to a computer and analyzed using a program we developed. The symmetry, flatness, field size, and congruence of the light and radiation fields of the photon beams from the linac were verified simultaneously. To validate the QA system, the ion chamber and film (X-Omat V2; Kodak, New York, NY) measurements were compared with the EPID measurements obtained in this study. The EPID measurements agreed with the film measurements. Parameters for beams with energies of 6 MV and 15 MV were obtained daily for 1 month using this system. It was found that our QA tool using EPID could substitute for the film test, which is a time-consuming method for routine QA assessment.
Lim, Sangwook, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Radiation Oncology, Kosin University College of Medicine, Seo-gu, Busan (Korea, Republic of); Ma, Sun Young; Jeung, Tae Sig [Department of Radiation Oncology, Kosin University College of Medicine, Seo-gu, Busan (Korea, Republic of); Yi, Byong Yong [Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD (United States); Lee, Sang Hoon [Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Jung-gu, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Suk [Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Cho, Sam Ju [Department of Radiation Oncology, Eulji University School of Medicine, Eulji General Hospital, Nowon-gu, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Jinho [Department of Radiation Oncology, Gachon University of Medicine and Science, Namdong-gu, Incheon (Korea, Republic of)
At the end of their service lives, various stainless steel components of nuclear weapons that have been exposed to tritium gas are evaluated to determine the extent of the tritium permeation. This information is then used to assess the decrement to performance caused by hydrogen (tritium) embrittlement. This evaluation is currently performed using a photo-emulsion based method and requires 24 hours or longer to complete. A system based on digital imaging technology has recently been designed and built at the Savannah River National Laboratory that performs this evaluation in 10 minutes or less on typical samples.
Gibbs, K; Carol Kestin, C
Combined Heat and Power Projects | Department of Energy
Combined Heat and Power Projects Combined Heat and Power Projects Combined Heat and Power Projects November 1, 2013 - 11:40am Addthis DOE's CHP Technical Assistance Partnerships (CHP TAPs) have compiled a select number of CHP project profiles. Search the project profiles database. Project profiles can be searched by state, CHP TAP, market sector, North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code, system size, technology/prime mover, fuel, thermal energy use, and year installed. View a list of project profiles by market sector. To view project profiles by state, click on a state on the map or choose a state from the drop-down list below. "An image of the United States representing a select number of CHP project profiles on a state-by-state basis View Energy and Environmental Analysis Inc.'s (EEA) database of all known
Hardware acceleration of JPEG2000 image compression for low-power embedded applications
JPEG2000 is ideal as the next-generation still image compression standard, and it is expected to replace JPEG for embedded applications such as digital cameras. These typically require low-power operation, so by combining a low-power microprocessor with ... Keywords: EBCOT, JPEG2000, SoC, SoPC, embedded systems, image compression
Darren Freeman; Greg Knowles
Evaluation of the sensitivity and fading characteristics of an image plate system for x-ray diagnostics
Image plates (IPs) are a reusable recording media capable of detecting ionizing radiation, used to diagnose x-ray emission from laser-plasma experiments. Due to their superior performance characteristics in x-ray applications [C. C. Bradford, W. W. Peppler, and J. T. Dobbins III, Med. Phys. 26, 27 (1999) and J. Digit. Imaging. 12, 54 (1999)], the Fuji Biological Analysis System (BAS) IPs are fielded on x-ray diagnostics for the HELEN laser by the Plasma Physics Department at AWE. The sensitivities of the Fuji BAS IPs have been absolutely calibrated for absolute measurements of x-ray intensity in the energy range of 0-100 keV. In addition, the Fuji BAS IP fading as a function of time was investigated. We report on the characterization of three Fuji BAS IP responses to x-rays using a radioactive source, and discrete x-ray line energies generated by the Excalibur soft x-ray facility and the Defense Radiological Standards Centre filter-fluorescer hard x-ray system at AWE.
Meadowcroft, A. L.; Bentley, C. D.; Stott, E. N. [Plasma Physics Department, AWE Aldermaston, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4PR (United Kingdom)
Preprocessing of backprojection images in the McClellan Nuclear Radiation Center tomography system
Neutron tomography is being investigated as a nondestructive technique for quantitative assessment of low atomic mass impurity concentration in metals. Neutrons maximize the sensitivity given their higher cross sections for low Z isotopes while tomography provides the three dimensional density information. The specific application is the detection of Hydrogen down to 200 ppm weight in aircraft engine compressor blades. A number of preprocessing corrections have been implemented for the backprojection images in order to achieve the detection requirements for a testing rate of three blades per hour. Among the procedures are corrections for neutron scattering and beam hardening. With these procedures the artifacts in tomographic reconstructions are shown to be less than the signal for 100 ppm hydrogen in titanium alloy samples.
Gibbons, M. R., LLNL
Ion imaging study of reaction dynamics in the N{sup +}+ CH{sub 4} system
The velocity map ion imaging method is applied to the ion-molecule reactions of N{sup +} with CH{sub 4}. The velocity space images are collected at collision energies of 0.5 and 1.8 eV, providing both product kinetic energy and angular distributions for the reaction products CH{sub 4}{sup +}, CH{sub 3}{sup +}, and HCNH{sup +}. The charge transfer process is energy resonant and occurs by long-range electron transfer that results in minimal deflection of the products. The formation of the most abundant product, CH{sub 3}{sup +}, proceeds by dissociative charge transfer rather than hydride transfer, as reported in earlier publications. The formation of HCNH{sup +} by C-N bond formation appears to proceed by two different routes. The triplet state intermediates CH{sub 3}NH{sup +} and CH{sub 2}NH{sub 2}{sup +} that are formed as N{sup +}({sup 3}P) approaches CH{sub 4} may undergo sequential loss of two hydrogen atoms to form ground state HCNH{sup +} products on a spin-allowed pathway. However, the kinetic energy distributions for formation of HCNH{sup +} extend past the thermochemical limit to form HCNH{sup +}+ 2H, implying that HCNH{sup +} may also be formed in concert with molecular hydrogen, and requiring that intersystem crossing to the singlet manifold must occur in a significant ({approx}25%) fraction of reactive collisions. We also report GAUSSIAN G2 calculations of the energies and structures of important singlet and triplet [CNH{sub 4}{sup +}] complexes that serve as precursors to product formation.
Pei, Linsen; Farrar, James M. [Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York 14627 (United States)
NIST Hyperspectral Image Projector (HIP)
... In DLP systems, the projected image is made from a composite of grayscale images representing each of the RGB colors (red, green, and blue). ...
Combinational domain encryption for still visual data
Image data has distinct regions of different importance. This property of image data has extensively been used to develop partial encryption techniques, but it is still unnoticed for total encryption. Providing similar security level to data of varied ... Keywords: Arnold cat map, Combinational domain, Edge detection, Net pixel change ratio, Statistical analysis
Nidhi Taneja; Balasubramanian Raman; Indra Gupta
High sensitivity assay of cement encapsulated spent nuclear fuel sludge using the Imaging Passive Active Neutron (IPAN) system
A new technique has been developed for high sensitivity assay of grouted spent nuclear fuel (SNF) sludge waste in 208 liter drums. The method uses the Imaging Passive Active Neutron (IPAN{sup TM}) system to provide regulatory acceptable measurements. At the Waste Receiving and Processing (WRAP) Facility in Hanford, two IPAN{sup TM} systems have been successfully calibrated and validated for assay of SNF grouted sludge drums (encapsulated with a cement mixture). The systems have been demonstrated to be capable of performing low level waste (LLW) / transuranic (TRU) waste sorting even in the presence of high gamma radiation fields emitted by the fission and activation products associated with SNF. The active and passive modes of the IPAN{sup TM} provide a wide dynamic range of assay: from below the TRU/LLW sorting threshold (100 nCi/g or 3700 Bq/g) up to several hundred grams of Weapons Grade Pu Equivalent. A new calibration technique was developed that uses a radial weighted average method to define the imaging response matrix. This method provides the required sensitivity to the height distribution of special nuclear material within the 208 liter drum, and makes use of the uniform radial distribution that will occur for a distribution of a large population of small particles in a homogeneous matrix. Extensive validation and testing with specially designed surrogate grouted sludge drums and radioactive standards have resulted in regulatory acceptance of this technique, permitting ultimate disposal of the SNF sludge drums at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. (authors)
Simpson, A.P. [BIL Solutions Inc, Santa Fe, NM (United States); Abdurrahman, N.M. [Fluor Hanford, Richland, WA (United States)
Estimation of radiative properties and temperature distributions in coal-fired boiler furnaces by a portable image processing system
This paper presented an experimental investigation on the estimation of radiative properties and temperature distributions in a 670 t/h coal-fired boiler furnace by a portable imaging processing system. The portable system has been calibrated by a blackbody furnace. Flame temperatures and emissivities were measured by the portable system and equivalent blackbody temperatures were deduced. Comparing the equivalent blackbody temperatures measured by the portable system and the infrared pyrometer, the relative difference is less than 4%. The reconstructed pseudo-instantaneous 2-D temperature distributions in two cross-sections can disclose the combustion status inside the furnace. The measured radiative properties of particles in the furnace proved there is significant scattering in coal-fired boiler furnaces and it can provide useful information for the calculation of radiative heat transfer and numerical simulation of combustion in coal-fired boiler furnaces. The preliminary experimental results show this technology will be helpful for the combustion diagnosis in coal-fired boiler furnaces. (author)
Li, Wenhao; Lou, Chun; Sun, Yipeng; Zhou, Huaichun [State Key Laboratory of Coal Combustion, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074 Hubei (China)
Optimal design and control strategies for novel combined heat and power (CHP) fuel cell systems. Part I of II, datum design conditions and approach.
Energy network optimization (ENO) models identify new strategies for designing, installing, and controlling stationary combined heat and power (CHP) fuel cell systems (FCSs) with the goals of (1) minimizing electricity and heating costs for building owners and (2) reducing emissions of the primary greenhouse gas (GHG) - carbon dioxide (CO{sub 2}). A goal of this work is to employ relatively inexpensive simulation studies to discover more financially and environmentally effective approaches for installing CHP FCSs. ENO models quantify the impact of different choices made by power generation operators, FCS manufacturers, building owners, and governments with respect to two primary goals - energy cost savings for building owners and CO{sub 2} emission reductions. These types of models are crucial for identifying cost and CO{sub 2} optima for particular installations. Optimal strategies change with varying economic and environmental conditions, FCS performance, the characteristics of building demand for electricity and heat, and many other factors. ENO models evaluate both 'business-as-usual' and novel FCS operating strategies. For the scenarios examined here, relative to a base case of no FCSs installed, model results indicate that novel strategies could reduce building energy costs by 25% and CO{sub 2} emissions by 80%. Part I of II articles discusses model assumptions and methodology. Part II of II articles illustrates model results for a university campus town and generalizes these results for diverse communities.
Simulation of specular surface imaging based on computer graphics: application on a vision inspection system
This work aims at detecting surface defects on reflecting industrial parts. A machine vision system, performing the detection of geometric aspect surface defects, is completely described. The revealing of defects is realized by a particular lighting ... Keywords: lighting, online inspection, reflective surface, simulation
Ralph Seulin; Frederic Merienne; Patrick Gorria
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Quantum Physics; Quantum Communications; Ultrafast Photon Detector; Nam. ...
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Scanning Electron Microscope with Spin Polarization Analysis. ...
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Metrology, Basic Units; Mass; Electronic Kilogram. Description ...
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Energy; Fossil Fuels;Distillation Curves for Complex Fuel Mixtures. ...
... nist.gov. 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: Public safety & Smart Grid. Description: Electrical engineer ...
Enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) with CO2 as heat transmission fluid--A scheme for combining recovery of renewable energy with geologic storage of CO2
Approach for Generating Renewable Energy with SimultaneousCombining Recovery of Renewable Energy with Geologic Storageof this abundant and renewable resource, geothermal energy
Pruess, K.
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image No 150 DPI Version 300 DPI Image. Title: Ultrafast Laser Speeds Up Quest for Atomic Control. ...
... 72 DPI Image � 150 DPI Image � 300 DPI Image �. Title: New Imaging Tool is Boon to Fuel Cell Research. Description: NIST ...
... Image Gallery : Image Details. 72 DPI Image 150 DPI Image No 300 DPI Version. Title: House; Trees. Description: *BFRL. Subjects (names): ...
A protection system for the JET ITER-like wall based on imaging diagnostics
The new JET ITER-like wall (made of beryllium and tungsten) is more fragile than the former carbon fiber composite wall and requires active protection to prevent excessive heat loads on the plasma facing components (PFC). Analog CCD cameras operating in the near infrared wavelength are used to measure surface temperature of the PFCs. Region of interest (ROI) analysis is performed in real time and the maximum temperature measured in each ROI is sent to the vessel thermal map. The protection of the ITER-like wall system started in October 2011 and has already successfully led to a safe landing of the plasma when hot spots were observed on the Be main chamber PFCs. Divertor protection is more of a challenge due to dust deposits that often generate false hot spots. In this contribution we describe the camera, data capture and real time processing systems. We discuss the calibration strategy for the temperature measurements with cross validation with thermal IR cameras and bi-color pyrometers. Most importantly, we demonstrate that a protection system based on CCD cameras can work and show examples of hot spot detections that stop the plasma pulse. The limits of such a design and the associated constraints on the operations are also presented.
Arnoux, G.; Balboa, I.; Balshaw, N.; Beldishevski, M.; Cramp, S.; Felton, R.; Goodyear, A.; Horton, A.; Kinna, D.; McCullen, P.; Obrejan, K.; Patel, K.; Lomas, P. J.; Rimini, F.; Stamp, M.; Stephen, A.; Thomas, P. D.; Williams, J.; Wilson, J.; Zastrow, K.-D. [Euratom/CCFE Fusion Association, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3DB (United Kingdom); and others
The Neutron Imaging Diagnostic at NIF
A neutron imaging diagnostic has recently been commissioned at the National Ignition Facility (NIF). This new system is an important diagnostic tool for inertial fusion studies at the NIF for measuring the size and shape of the burning DT plasma during the ignition stage of ICF implosions. The imaging technique utilizes a pinhole neutron aperture, placed between the neutron source and a neutron detector. The detection system measures the two dimensional distribution of neutrons passing through the pinhole. This diagnostic has been designed to collect two images at two times. The long flight path for this diagnostic, 28 m, results in a chromatic separation of the neutrons, allowing the independently timed images to measure the source distribution for two neutron energies. Typically the first image measures the distribution of the 14 MeV neutrons and the second image of the 6-12 MeV neutrons. The combination of these two images has provided data on the size and shape of the burning plasma within the compressed capsule, as well as a measure of the quantity and spatial distribution of the cold fuel surrounding this core.
Merrill, F E; Buckles, R; Clark, D; Danly, C R; Drury, O B; Dzenitis, J M; Fatherly, V E; Fittinghoff, D N; Gallegos, R; Grim, G P; Guler, N; Loomis, E N; Lutz, S; Malone, R M; Martinson, D D; Mares, D; Morley, D J; Morgan, G L; Oertel, J A; Tregillis, I L; Volegov, P L; Weiss, P B; Wilde, C H
The neutron imaging diagnostic at NIF (invited)
Merrill, F. E.; Clark, D. D.; Danly, C. R.; Drury, O. B.; Fatherley, V. E.; Gallegos, R.; Grim, G. P.; Guler, N.; Loomis, E. N.; Martinson, D. D.; Mares, D.; Morley, D. J.; Morgan, G. L.; Oertel, J. A.; Tregillis, I. L.; Volegov, P. L.; Wilde, C. H.; Wilson, D. C. [Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87544 (United States); Bower, D.; Dzenitis, J. M. [Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, California 94550 (United States); and others
Adaptive wiener image restoration kernel
A method and device for restoration of electro-optical image data using an adaptive Wiener filter begins with constructing imaging system Optical Transfer Function, and the Fourier Transformations of the noise and the image. A spatial representation of the imaged object is restored by spatial convolution of the image using a Wiener restoration kernel.
Yuan, Ding (Henderson, NV)
Image system for three dimensional, 360 DEGREE, time sequence surface mapping of moving objects
A three-dimensional motion camera system comprises a light projector placed between two synchronous video cameras all focused on an object-of-interest. The light projector shines a sharp pattern of vertical lines (Ronchi ruling) on the object-of-interest that appear to be bent differently to each camera by virtue of the surface shape of the object-of-interest and the relative geometry of the cameras, light projector and object-of-interest Each video frame is captured in a computer memory and analyzed. Since the relative geometry is known and the system pre-calibrated, the unknown three-dimensional shape of the object-of-interest can be solved for by matching the intersections of the projected light lines with orthogonal epipolar lines corresponding to horizontal rows in the video camera frames. A surface reconstruction is made and displayed on a monitor screen. For 360.degree. all around coverage of theobject-of-interest, two additional sets of light projectors and corresponding cameras are distributed about 120.degree. apart from one another.
Lu, Shin-Yee (Pleasanton, CA)